Arthur Keyes Chosen To Lead Alaska Farm Agency

USDA Names Arthur Keyes as New FSA State Executive Director for Alaska

The USDA has appointed Arthur Keyes as the State Executive Director for its Farm Service Agency (FSA) in Alaska. This role places him at the forefront of delivering key federal agricultural programs across the state.

Keyes is a long-time Alaskan farmer and agricultural leader. He owns Glacier Valley Farms, where he grows a range of specialty crops and helped launch Alaska’s largest CSA produce delivery service. His past leadership includes serving as Director of the Alaska Division of Agriculture from 2016–2019, where he introduced the popular $5 Alaska Grown Challenge, encouraging residents to support local farms.

Keyes has also served on various boards, including the Mat-Su Farm Bureau, Alaska Farm Bureau, and the National Onion Board. His efforts have supported sustainable growth and collaboration within the state’s farming sector.

In his new role, Keyes will manage USDA FSA programs like disaster recovery, farm credit, conservation, and commodity assistance across Alaska. These programs are designed to ensure food security, support rural economies, and help producers during emergencies.

“FSA State Executive Directors serve in a critical role carrying out USDA’s mission at the state level — ensuring that our focus is on meeting the needs of local agricultural producers by putting farmers and ranchers first,” said FSA Administrator Bill Beam.

With decades of experience and a deep commitment to Alaska’s agriculture, Arthur Keyes is expected to lead the FSA with strong vision and local insight.