USDA appoints Colton Buckley as NRCS chief 

The U.S. Department of Agriculture has appointed Colton Buckley as chief of the Natural Resources Conservation Service, succeeding Aubrey Bettencourt as head of the agency that oversees conservation programs and technical assistance for farmers, ranchers and forest landowners.  

Buckley is the 19th NRCS chief in its 91-year history, as well as the second Texan to lead the department. Buckley is also the youngest individual in the NRCS’s history to serve as chief. 

Buckley’s experience 

Buckley most recently served as NRCS associate chief, overseeing the agency’s financial and technical assistance programs, management strategy, science and technology, soil science and resource assessment, and partnerships. He also previously served as NRCS chief of staff. 

Before joining USDA, Buckley was CEO of the National Association of Resource Conservation and Development Councils, a network of nonprofits focused on conservation and rural economic development. 

USDA Undersecretary for Farm Production and Conservation Richard Fordyce said Buckley has demonstrated an ability to connect policy with field implementation. 

“He understands how to cut through bureaucracy and ensure programs work for producers,” Fordyce said. “I am confident he will continue to lead NRCS with clarity, accountability, and a strong commitment to service.” 

High Plains roots  

Raised on his family’s cattle ranch near Gatesville, Texas, Buckley earned a bachelor’s degree in agricultural services and development from Tarleton State University and a master’s degree in communication from Liberty University.  

Earlier in his career, he served as an adviser to the Texas commissioner of agriculture, worked in rural economic development. He was appointed by former Texas Gov. Rick Perry to the Texas A&M University System Board of Regents. 

In a statement, Buckley said he plans to focus on producer-centered conservation efforts. 

“Our mission will be to empower America’s farmers and ranchers with the tools, flexibility, and support they need to steward our natural resources while strengthening family farming operations, rural economies, and ensuring our nation’s food security,” Buckley said. “We will focus on locally led, results-driven conservation that works hand-in-hand with producers—not against them.” 

Lacey Vilhauer can be reached at 620-227-1871 or [email protected].