Chuck Conner Retires From The National Council of Farmer Cooperatives
Charles F. “Chuck” Conner will retire from his position as president and CEO of The National Council of Farmer Cooperatives (NCFC) at the end of 2024.
During his tenure, Conner oversaw NCFC’s efforts to promote and protect the interests of America’s farmer-owned cooperatives. He has provided the organization’s strategic vision and enhanced its value for its members.
Conner has also advocated for agriculture at the highest level of government, working to influence policy and provide a voice for NCFC members.
Simplot Names New Agribusiness President
G. Rey Reinhardt will serve as Simplot’s new Agribusiness president following the retirement of Doug Stone.
“We are excited to announce G. Rey as the new head of Simplot AgriBusiness,” Simplot president and CEO Garrett Lofto said. “His extensive industry experience, familiarity with the business, exceptional leadership skills, and strategic mindset will be vital to the company as we drive growth and work endlessly to exceed the expectations of our customers.”
Reinhardt has spent six years with Simplot, most recently serving as vice president of business development and optimization for Simplot AgriBusiness.
“I’m honored and grateful for this opportunity and will dedicate myself to serving our customers, employees, and the company,” Reinhardt said. “Collectively, Simplot AgriBusiness will strive to fulfil our vision by operating as a customer-centric organization, rooted in phosphate expertise, while utilizing technology and innovation to help feed the world.”
Stone retires after eight years and will stay on to help in Reinhardt’s transition through the end of this year.
“We thank Doug for his leadership, dedication, and service to the Company and wish him a happy retirement,” Lofto said. “G. Rey will step in with the experience and skills to help ensure a smooth transition and keep the positive momentum Doug and the company have established.”
FieldWatch Welcomes Washington as 26th State Member
The State of Washington has joined FieldWatch - enabling the state’s beekeepers and crop producers to identify and map the locations of apiaries and crop fields that pesticide applicators should avoid.
“The goal is to get beekeepers and crop producers registered through FieldWatch so applicators can access accurate information before spraying,” said Bob Walters, president and CEO of FieldWatch. “This model has been proven to build stewardship and communication in agriculture.”
Washington joins 25 other states in membership. Its decision was especially driven by the needs of crop producers and beekeepers who wanted to register the locations of their apiaries and crops.
“This partnership gives our farmers another tool in the toolbox as we work together to ensure the continued viability of Washington agriculture through safe, effective and efficient pesticide usage,” says Derek Sandison, Washington State Department of Agriculture director.
