Utah Commissioner of Agriculture and Food, Leonard Blackham, named Jed H. Christenson as the department's new Marketing Division Director. Jed has been the director of marketing for Western AgCredit, located in South Jordan, Utah since 1991.

"Jed brings with him 31 years experience in agricultural banking and marketing, and is a perfect fit for us," said Commissioner Blackham. "He has a clear understanding of how we can meet the needs of our agricultural producers throughout the state."

Shortly after being named Commissioner of Agriculture and Food, Blackham moved to re-established a separate marketing division within the department. The Utah Legislature approved the proposal, and appropriated funding during the 2005 legislative session.

"I am excited to be part of the Department of Agriculture and Food," said Christensen. "I hope to make a positive impact on the state's agricultural industry and promote rural Utah's economy," he said.

The new division will focus on value added and new marketing opportunities for Utah agriculture products and rural economic development.

Christenson has had a positive influence on agriculture during his career with AgCredit that spans 31 years. After being appointed AgCredit's Director of Marketing in 1991, he successfully helped re-position the company during the 1980's to become the leader in agricultural lending in the Intermountain West.

Christenson served as an Ex-officio Member of the Agricultural Advisory Board for the UDAF. He was a member of the Junior Livestock Show and Sale Committee for the Utah State Fair; he was chairman of the AgDay Organizing Committee to promote agricultural products and raise scholarship funds for rural youth seeking a career in agriculture or a related field. The Utah Farm Bureau recognized Jed for his contribution in 2000 with their "Friend of Agriculture" Award.

Christensen officially joins the department April 18.

Commissioner Blackham also announced the naming of Richard Sparks and Seth Winterton as Deputy Directors of Marketing for the division. Sparks has served as the division's Marketing Facilitator since 1998. Winterton has served as the Division of Animal Industry's Organic Program Manager and has been with the department since 1987. Commissioner Blackham said the three-person team will help the department fulfill one of the governor's key goals, that of expanding Utah trade around the world, and strengthening Utah's rural economy.