Nelson Cox was named chair of the commission and will officially begin his term July 1, 2014. Cox, who operates his family farm near Warden, WA has served as a commissioner of the WSPC since 2008. Cox will succeed Jared Balcom who was the commission chair during the past year.
“I have enjoyed my time serving the industry as a commissioner and look forward to working with the other commissioners during this upcoming year,” said Cox. “The objectives of the commission are the same and there is plenty of work to do to ensure we are all best meeting the needs of growers throughout the state. Whether that be looking to address legislative issues, research needs, communication activities, or educational programs.”
Balcom, who has been a commissioner since 2005, will continue to serve on the board. “It has been a busy year for the commission and even though my term as Chair is complete, I will continue to do my part in helping the industry during this very crucial time,” said Balcom. “There are always many activities and issues that we need to continue to address and be a part of.”
Other members of the WSPC’s Executive Team include:
- Mike Dodds (Moses Lake), 1st Vice Chair
- Nick Johnson (Othello), 2nd Vice Chair
- Rex Calloway (Quincy), Secretary
- Stacy Kniveton (Pasco), Treasurer
- Jared Balcom (Pasco), Past Chair
In addition, a representative from the Washington State Department of Agriculture also sits on the board.
In accordance with its by-laws, the WSPC commissioners select a new chair and other leadership positions on a yearly basis.
