New ag director named in Nebraska

Nebraska Gov. Pete Ricketts has named Steve Wellman as the new director of the Nebraska Department of Agriculture. This appointment follows the departure of former Director Greg Ibach, who was named USDA under secretary for marketing and regulatory programs by President Donald Trump. “As a family farmer and respected leader in Nebraska agriculture, Steve brings broad experience to the position, having served in leadership in ag organizations at the state and local level. He will be a voice for Nebraska’s farm and ranch families, and will work to expand market access, add value to our quality commodities, and advocate for property tax relief,” said Ricketts. Wellman operates a fourth-generation family farm near Syracuse, NE, where they produce soybeans, corn, wheat, alfalfa and cattle.