The U.S. Department of Agriculture will soon launch a series of community discussions to generate ideas to create jobs and boost the economy.

Job forums will be held in the Dakotas on Jan. 6 and in Nebraska on Jan. 8.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says President Barack Obama asked the USDA and other federal agencies to listen to communities for ideas to spur innovation, job creation and creativity.

The upcoming discussions will be hosted by USDA Rural Development state directors and Farm Service Agency state executive directors. Business owners, community members and state and local officials are expected to participate.