EAST LANSING, Mich. — Brandon Fewins has been appointed state director for USDA Rural Development in Michigan. He is one of several regional appointments announced by President Joe Biden within the U.S. Department of Agriculture.

Fewins has served as Northern Michigan Regional Manager for Sen. Debbie Stabenow for over 20 years. He has extensive experience working with elected officials, community leaders, USDA and agencies at all levels of government on local economic development and rural development initiatives.

He has been an advisor to the senator and staff of the U.S Senate Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition and Forestry on issues related to Michigan agriculture, forestry, rural development, the Great Lakes, and conservation. He is a lifelong resident of the Grand Traverse region, grew up on a centennial farm and owns a small business.

“I am honored and humbled to be appointed by the President to join the USDA Rural Development team,” Fewins said. “Working for Sen. Stabenow the past 20 years, I’ve come to know firsthand the important services Rural Development delivers to our communities and how dedicated the staff is.

Rural Development provides loans and grants to help expand economic opportunities, create jobs and improve the quality of life for millions of Americans in rural areas. This assistance supports infrastructure improvements; business development; housing; community facilities such as schools, public safety and health care; and high-speed internet access in rural, tribal and high-poverty areas. For more information, go to www.rd.usda.gov.