New ARS Administrator Named

July 16, 2004 -- Secretary of Agriculture Ann M. Veneman announced the appointment of Dr. Edward B. Knipling as the new administrator for Agricultural Research Service (ARS). She also named associate administrators Dr. Antoinette A. Betschart and Dr. Caird E. Rexroad, Jr.

?Ed Knipling has provided valuable experience in leading ARS in an acting position. We appreciate his continued willingness to serve in this leadership position,? stated Veneman.

Dr. Knipling is responsible for managing USDA?s main in-house scientific research agency with more than 2,100 scientists and 8,000 total employees in more than 100 locations. He has served as acting administrator since December 2001, although he has worked at ARS in a variety of capacities since 1968.

?ARS?s programs are very important to the sheep industry. Drs. Knipling, Betschart and Rexroad have all been involved with our industry issues in the past and we look forward to working with them in their new roles,? stated American Sheep Industry Association Deputy Director of Policy Paul Rodgers.

Staff contact: Paul Rodgers, 303-771-3500

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