Members of national promotion and research boards are nominated by industry representatives or organizations and appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture. They serve a vital role in overseeing board operations. It is USDA's policy that board membership accurately reflects the diversity of individuals served by the programs. Therefore, USDA encourages eligible women, minorities, and persons with disabilities to seek nomination to serve on the boards and participate in their deliberations. Each year, approximately 1/3 of the membership of each group must be reappointed. Generally, members may serve two three-year terms

NOMINATIONS

The next solicitation for nominations begins in November 2015. For more information, please contact Emily DeBord or by phone at 202-720-5567.

TOTAL MEMBERSHIP

The Fluid Milk Board is composed of 20 members who are appointed by the Secretary of Agriculture. Of the 20 board members, 15 represent geographic regions and five are at-large members. The five at-large members include at least three fluid milk processors and at least one member from the general public. Fluid Board members hold staggered three-year terms and are eligible for appointment to two consecutive terms. An individual appointed to fill a vacancy with a term of 18 months or less remaining shall be entitled to serve two consecutive three-year terms following the term of the vacant position to which the person was appointed

TERM OF OFFICE

July 1, 2015, to June 30, 2018

NOMINATION PROCESS

The Secretary solicits nominations for the Board from individual fluid milk processors and other interested parties, including eligible organizations. Fluid milk processors and other interested parties may submit nominations for positions on the Board for regions in which they are located or market fluid milk, and for at-large members. Eligible organizations may submit a slate of nominees for seats in all regions and for at-large members.