As you know, New Mexico is the fastest growing dairy state in the country, so the job of heading USDA’s rural development efforts in the state will focus on communities with strong ties to our industry and operations.

Secretary of Agriculture Mike Johanns announced today that he is appointing Ryan Gleason as State Director for USDA Rural Development in the state. The Secretary commented on Gleason’s track record as a public servant and leader, most recently as research/data manager for the Rio Rancho Economic Development Coporation, and formerly as legislative analyst for the New Mexico House of Representatives. He has also served as a legislative assistant for Senator Pete Domenici, chairman of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources committee.

Rural Development touts its success in delivering programs to support increasing economic opportunity and quality of life in rural communities, noting that during the Bush Administration, over $63 billion has been invested, resulting in 1.1 million jobs.