Please view click on this link: http://www.usda.gov/2005/05/0162.xml Release No. 0162.05 Ed Loyd (202) 720-4623 JOHANNS APPOINTS DEPUTY UNDER SECRETARY FOR NATURAL RESOURCES AND ENVIRONMENT WASHINGTON, May 16, 2005 - Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns today announced the appointment of Merlyn Carlson as the deputy under secretary for USDA Natural Resources and Environment (NRE). Carlson will begin his new duties on June 13, 2005. "Merlyn Carlson brings to the Bush administration a lifetime of experience in agriculture from family farm life to his role as a state director of agriculture," said Johanns. "His background in policymaking and public service will be a tremendous asset to USDA and our efforts to protect and enhance our nation's natural resources." Merlyn Carlson was appointed director of agriculture for Nebraska in January 1999. In his role as director, Carlson served as an advocate for Nebraska agriculture, overseeing regulatory programs, promoting agriculture products in both domestic and international markets, and ensuring wise stewardship of natural resources. Prior to his service in state government, he was active in several community organizations and served as a board member of the Deuel County Soil Conservation Service. Carlson is a Nebraska Hall of Agricultural Achievement honoree, recipient of the University of Nebraska Agriculture Contribution Award, and a 2004 inductee into the Nebraska Cattlemen Hall of Fame. Carlson holds a Bachelor of Science degree in agriculture from Colorado State University. Until recently, he operated a ranch in western Nebraska, where he also raised corn, wheat, and alfalfa. He and his wife, Janice, have two grown daughters, Debra and Chris. NRE is one of seven USDA mission areas. The goal of NRE is to promote the conservation and sustainable use of natural resources on the nation's private lands and to sustain production of all the goods and services that the public demands of the National Forests. NRE agencies work to prevent damage to natural resources and the environment, restore the resource base, and promote good land management. Further information on NRE agencies and programs can be found at http://www.usda.gov by entering the key words "natural resources and environment". # USDA News oc.news@xxxxxxxx 202 720-4623 ---------------------------------------------------- To unsubscribe, send email to oc.news@xxxxxxxx and reference your email address.
