Local Farmers and Ranchers Urged to Cast Ballots in Fayette/Union County Committee Elections

CONNERSVILLE, IN — The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) has officially begun the election process for the Farm Service Agency (FSA) county committees, mailing ballots to eligible producers across Fayette and Union counties. Local agricultural leaders are encouraging all eligible farmers and ranchers to participate, noting that these committees provide a vital link between the agricultural community and the federal government.

The FSA county committee system is unique among government agencies, as it allows local producers to have a direct say in how federal farm programs are administered. Elected members serve three-year terms and are responsible for critical decisions regarding disaster recovery assistance, conservation initiatives, safety-net programs, and price support. They also oversee local administrative issues, including county office employment.

Meet the Candidates

This year’s election features three Local Administrative Areas (LAAs), each with a nominated candidate seeking a three-year term:

LAA #2 (Fayette County): Covering Orange, Connersville, and Columbia Townships, the nominee is Eric Bryson. A resident of Connersville, Bryson brings a half-century of experience to the table, having produced corn, soybeans, hay, and livestock for 50 years. He is currently an active member of the committee and serves as Vice Chairperson.

LAA #4 (Union County): Representing Brownsville, Liberty, and Harmony Townships, the nominee is Steve Wollyung. Based in Harmony Township, Wollyung has 45 years of experience in the production of corn, soybeans, wheat, hay, and cattle. He currently serves as an active committee member.

LAA #5 (Union County): Including Harrison, Center, and Union Townships, the nominee is Colton Shamblin. A resident of Center Township, Shamblin is a producer of corn and soybeans.

Voting Eligibility and Deadlines

To participate in the election, producers must be involved in a USDA program and be assigned to the specific LAA currently up for election. Participation is not limited to those receiving financial benefits; “cooperating producers”—those who have provided information about their farming or ranching operation to the FSA—are also eligible to vote.

Voters must return their completed ballots to the Fayette/Union County FSA office or ensure they are postmarked by February 2, 2026. The newly elected committee members will officially take office on March 2, 2026.

Producers who have not received a ballot or are unsure of their assigned LAA can use the geographic information system locator tool at fsa.usda.gov/elections. For direct assistance or to request a replacement ballot, contact the Fayette/Union County FSA office at (765) 825-2331.