Head to Washington, D.C. in September and hear from U.S. Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack, who will give the keynote speech at the National Association of Towns and Townships (NATaT) 2010 America's Town Meeting on Friday, September 17. The theme of this year's America's Town Meeting, held Sept. 15-17, is the preservation of local democracy. Conference participants will engage in interactive discussions with senior Obama Administration and Congressional leaders, and will highlight the need to enhance federal resources in towns, townships, and other rural and small urban areas.

As secretary of agriculture, Vilsack is responsible for strengthening the American agricultural economy, revitalizing rural communities, protecting and conserving our natural resources, and providing a safe, sufficient and nutritious food supply for the American people.  The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) is helping create economic opportunities in America's rural communities by expanding broadband access, promoting renewable energy, increasing agricultural exports, taking advantage of ecosystem markets, capitalizing on outdoor recreation, and linking local farm production to local consumption. And USDA is revitalizing rural America by investing in critical infrastructure such as homes, fire stations, water systems and health clinics that will create jobs and improve the quality of life for rural residents.  

It's not too late to register for America's Town Meeting! For more information and to register, visit http://www.natat.org/

Learn more about NATaT's 2010 legislative priorities here.