PIERRE, S.D.(DRGNews)- The former Executive Director of a state housing program and a former state representative have been appointed to lead the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Farm Service Agency and Rural Development offices in South Dakota.

As State Director for Rural Development in South Dakota, Lorraine Polak from Pierre will “help affirm the mission of the Trump Administration by focusing on finding ways to empower rural America and unleash economic prosperity.”

Polak has worked in public service in the areas of housing and economic development for more than 30 years, most recently as the Housing Policy Specialist for U.S. Senator Mike Rounds.

Roger Chase, from the Huron area, was appointed to the State Director position for the Farm Service Agency in South Dakota. In that role, Chase will “help implement President Trump’s America First agenda and execute USDA’s policies in planning, organizing, and administering FSA programs through state offices across the country.”

Chase has an extensive background in both business and agriculture. He is an owner and partner in Chase Grain and Cattle with his oldest son. The farm raises diversified crops and cattle. He served as a State Representative in South Dakota from 2017-2024, holding leadership positions on regular and summer study committees and chaired the House Agriculture and Natural Resources committee.