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Arthur Keyes Named USDA FSA Director for Hawaii and Alaska

Experienced Farmer to Lead FSA Programs in Two States

Arthur Keyes Named USDA FSA Director for Hawaii and Alaska
  • AuthorBonnie Johnson
  • DateJuly 28, 2026
  • MediumMedia Article
Arthur Keyes has been appointed USDA Farm Service Agency State Executive Director for Hawaii, adding to his Alaska leadership role and bringing extensive farming, agricultural policy, and disaster response experience.

The Trump Administration has appointed Arthur Keyes as the new State Executive Director (SED) for the USDA Farm Service Agency (FSA) in Hawaii. Keyes, who was appointed as Alaska FSA State Executive Director in June 2025, will oversee FSA operations in both Hawaii and Alaska.
 

Keyes brings more than two decades of agricultural experience to the role. Since beginning his farming career in 2003, he has grown a range of specialty crops, including carrots, strawberries, tomatoes, zucchini, and onions under his Yensis brand.
 

He is also a strong supporter of Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) and has helped connect local producers with consumers through produce delivery services and farmers markets. His efforts have focused on expanding opportunities for local farmers and strengthening agricultural communities.
 

From 2016 to 2019, Keyes served as Director of the Alaska Division of Agriculture. During his tenure, he launched the “$5 Alaska Grown Challenge,” a program designed to support local producers and increase sales of Alaska-grown products.
 

Most recently, Keyes served as Acting State Executive Director for Hawaii, where he helped lead USDA response efforts following severe Kona Low storms that caused significant damage to agricultural operations. His experience with disaster response and agricultural leadership positioned him for the expanded role.
 

As State Executive Director, Keyes will oversee FSA programs in Hawaii and Alaska, including commodity, conservation, credit, and disaster assistance initiatives. These programs provide support to farmers, ranchers, and agricultural landowners while helping maintain a reliable supply of food, fiber, and fuel.
 

Photo Credit: fsa.usda.gov

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