All U.S. Grains Council (USGC) accountants and several directors joined USGC Washington accounting staff members for a training program this week that covered recommended and best accounting practices.

“‘Strict accounts, good friends’ is a motto that has been ingrained deep into my head ever since from my first assignment overseas with the Council,� said USGC President and CEO Tom Sleight.

“Our global accounting and finance staff play a vital role that enables the Council to be good stewards of our members’ and the USDA Foreign Agricultural Service’s financial support. We wouldn’t have any success without these wonderful folks who work behind the scenes.â€�

Their program this week focused on rules, regulations and compliance matters, which will help maintain the Council’s positive track record with USDA FAS audits. The accountants wrapped up their visit to the United States with a tour of a Maryland farm on Thursday to see U.S. production firsthand.

Members of the group will return home this weekend with greater confidence in their abilities to support the Council’s activities and meet USDA FAS regulations.