Management Changes in the Ag Division

The Noble Foundation's Agricultural Division has been directed by a management team, the Ag Management Group (AMG), since the summer of 1999. The existing five-member AMG, composed of Wadell Altom, Hugh Aljoe, Paul Joerger, Matt Mattox and Fred Schmedt, has managed the division since February 2000.

This November, the AMG voted to modify the current management structure, elevating the administrative coordinator and support manager position to Agricultural Division director. The decision was subsequently supported by the Noble Foundation president and Board of Trustees. On Nov. 16, Wadell Altom assumed responsibilities as Agricultural Division director. The remaining AMG members will continue to serve on the management team as consulting team managers. Other members of the management team under Altom's direction are Dr. Billy Cook, the consulting support research manager, and Shan Ingram, the education and special projects manager.

The Agricultural Division had been seeking a consulting support research manager (CSRM) for several months; effective Nov. 1, Cook became CSRM. His responsibilities include oversight of all Agricultural Division research and demonstration activities and staff, oversight of all associated farm activities and staff and collaboration between the Agricultural Division and other Foundation divisions as well as universities and other research institutions. He will also serve as a member of and manager to the Agricultural Division research team (other research positions yet to be filled).

Cook has been the livestock specialist on the NF2 team more than five years. He is continuing to serve part-time as the interim livestock specialist until a replacement can be hired.

The Agricultural Division congratulates Cook and Altom. We look forward to results from their efforts in their new positions. The division will continue to make changes as needed to enhance and improve its effectiveness as a service organization providing guidance to regional agricultural producers and land resource managers through consultation, education and demonstration and research. NF Ag News and Views readers will be informed as significant events occur.