Robert Hougaard Appointed Plant Industry Director
Robert Hougaard, Plant Industry's feed and fertilizer program manager, has been named Plant Industry Director. The appointment takes effect June 15, 2011 following the retirement of Clair Allen who has been Plant Industry director since March of 2005.
Robert has been with the Utah Department of Agriculture and Food (UDAF) for the last 11 years. He began as a Compliance Specialist in the Uintah Basin on March 1, 2000. In June 2005 he was promoted to Program Manager over the Nursery, Fertilizer, Pesticide Registration, USDA Fruit and Vegetable Inspection and USDA Recordkeeping programs. This position has expanded to include Feed, Weed, Seed, Organic, Fertilizer, and USDA Fruit and Vegetable Inspection programs.
"I am grateful and humbled by the trust Commissioner Blackham has put in me to direct the Division of Plant Industry," Hougaard said. "I am looking forward to the opportunity to work closely with the Commissioner and to move the division forward with respect to the goals of the UDAF. I have the utmost respect for the hardworking employees of the Division and I am anxious to work with them to continue the progress made under the direction of Clair Allen," He added.
Robert serves on the Board of Directors for the Association of American Plant Food Control Officials and as an ex-officio board member with the Utah Crop Improvement Association. He is also the Chairman of the State Weed Committee.
Robert and his wife Jennifer have been married for 14 years and have four children. Robert enjoys hunting, fishing, and watching his children learn and grow.
The Division of Plant Industry is responsible for ensuring disease-free and pest-free plants, grains, seeds, as well as properly labeled agricultural commodities, and the safe application of pesticides and farm chemicals.
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Posted June 1, 2011