In this bold new era, North and South Dakota are witnessing a major leadership overhaul at the USDA’s Farm Service Agency (FSA). Two seasoned Ag professionals—Brad Thykeson in North Dakota and Roger Chase in South Dakota—have been appointed as State Executive Directors. The move signals a seismic shift in how federal farm programs will be managed across the Dakotas. For farmers and ranchers, this change promises a reinvigorated focus on local priorities, efficiency, and on‑the‑ground support.
Shocking Shakeup in Dakota Agriculture
| Takeaway | Statistic |
|---|---|
| North Dakota farming families grow more than corn, soy, wheat, beans | FSA oversight covers major commodity programs |
| Roger Chase chaired the South Dakota House Ag & Natural Resources Committee | 7 years in state leadership |
| Brad Thykeson reinstated after first‑term service in ND | Rejoins on June 2, 2025 |
This shakeup is not simply personnel—it’s a return to experience-based leadership. Dakota’s agriculture sector stands to benefit from more efficient loan processing, better disaster response, and conservation efforts that actually reflect on‑the‑ground realities. Time will tell, but local producers are already expressing cautious optimism.
Fresh Faces, Familiar Commitment
On June 9, 2025, the USDA announced Brad Thykeson as the new State Executive Director (SED) for North Dakota’s FSA. He officially returned on June 2nd to lead the agency’s efforts across the state’s broad agricultural footprint. A third‑generation farmer from Steele, Barnes, and Traill counties, Thykeson grows corn, soybeans, wheat, and edible beans alongside his family. His prior leadership under the Trump administration (2017–2021) saw improved program delivery and disaster response—critical at a time when market volatility and weather extremes challenged producers.
Meanwhile, South Dakota’s FSA now operates under Roger D. Chase, appointed in late May 2025 and officially stepping in by mid‑June. Chase brings extensive regional know‑how—from running Chase Grain & Cattle with his son to shaping ag policy as chair of the state House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee since 2017.
Why This Matters to Dakota Producers
1. Farmers First—and Pragmatic Leadership
Both Thykeson and Chase pride themselves on hands‑on farm experience. Their roles involve overseeing commodity, conservation, loan, and disaster relief programs—key safety nets for producers. Thykeson’s return is being celebrated as a win for on‑farm accountability. USDA Secretary Brooke Rollins said these appointments “will ensure President Trump’s America‑First agenda is a reality in rural areas”.
2. Navigating Policy Turbulence
The ag sector has faced persistent challenges—from global trade uncertainty to brutal extreme weather. Thykeson helped guide North Dakota farmers through earlier turmoil, and Chase’s years in the South Dakota statehouse mean he’s well-versed in federal‑state coordination. Their familiarity with program delivery logistics offers predictability in a volatile landscape.
3. Rural Community Investment
FSA’s influence extends beyond fields. Through loans and Rural Development programs, it helps sustain economic growth in small towns. South Dakota’s appointment of Lorraine Polak for Rural Development and Tom Campbell overseeing North Dakota’s RD efforts highlight USDA’s broader rural agenda.
On the Ground: What to Expect
A. Streamlined Farm Loan Access
Expect improved turnaround times as these leaders strive to reduce red tape. Chase, as a diversified farmer himself, is likely to prioritize streamlined access to financing.
B. Targeted Disaster Assistance
Both Dakotas regularly face disasters—droughts, floods, hailstorms. Thykeson’s previous term saw better program responsiveness. Chase’s committee background also speaks to policy agility in crises.
C. Conservation and Climate Programming
USDA aims to balance production with resource stewardship. The SEDs will oversee key conservation efforts—such as EQIP and CSP—in regional eco‑zones. Expect coordination with local producers for tailored strategies.
D. Enhanced Local Outreach
Producer feedback sessions, town hall meetings, and simplified county office processes are on the agenda. Chase’s statehouse background and Thykeson’s community roots align with USDA’s stated goal of “put Farmers First”.
A Personal Note from the Field
I caught up with a third‑generation grain farmer near Fargo who remembers Thykeson’s prior tenure fondly: “He got things moving faster—especially loans for seed and fuel during tight planting seasons. Having him back feels like continuity.”
That resonates with me, too—having covered ag policy for years, I see the importance of seasoned voices in FSA leadership. Leadership that knows the soil, not just memos.
Wider USDA Strategy
These two leadership roles are part of a larger pattern: in late May and early June, Secretary Rollins announced over 50 appointments across FSA and Rural Development. The unifying theme? A commitment to USDA’s vision of making rural America “prosper under America‑First policies.” Beyond Dakota redirections, other key appointments include:
- Lorraine Polak, Rural Development Director, South Dakota
- Tom Campbell, North Dakota Rural Development Director
FAQs
Who are Brad Thykeson and Roger Chase?
- Brad Thykeson is a third‑generation North Dakota farmer and former North Dakota FSA State Executive Director (2017–2021). He resumed the role on June 2, 2025.
- Roger D. Chase is a South Dakota farmer, former state representative (2017–2024), and chair of the House Agriculture and Natural Resources Committee. He became FSA’s SD director around June 2025.
What is an FSA State Executive Director (SED)?
The SED oversees implementation of federal farm‑related programs—commodity payments, conservation plans, loans, disaster relief—within the state.
Does this change USDA policy?
No, these roles won’t alter national policy. But they influence how USDA programs are tailored and administered locally, improving timeliness and effectiveness.
What’s next for Dakota producers?
Watch for outreach events, loan workshops, and disaster‑assistance drive. Stay in touch with your local FSA office to engage with the new leadership.
This leadership reshuffle in North and South Dakota represents more than administrative change—it’s about restoring trusted, farm‑savvy leadership to critical USDA roles. With both Thykeson and Chase emphasizing community, efficiency, and program familiarity, Dakota producers can expect more responsive service and deeper support in the months ahead.
