CAMILLA, GA -- Camilla native Krysta Harden is now the new chief of staff for U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Tom Vilsack. She is now replacing Karen Ross who left for a job as California’s food and agriculture secretary.

Harden was previously the USDA’s assistant secretary for congressional relations.

Vilsack says her knowledge will serve the USDA well while they address agriculture and farmer issues.

The University of Georgia graduate says she hopes she can have input that will help people in Southwest Georgia.