The South Dakota Wheat Commission has a new executive director beginning May 1.  Current director Randy Englund is retiring after serving for 23 years as the group’s leader. Former South Dakota Air Guard Public Affairs officer and SDSU grad Reid Christopherson takes over the reigns starting next month. He credits Englund for leaving the organization in great shape.

Christopherson who served as technical services nutritionist for Zip Feed Mills prior to his joining the National Guard says he’s looking forward to the job, working with producers, researchers and industry leaders.

Christopherson who recently retired from the South Dakota Air National Guard has a bachelor and master of science degrees in agriculture from South Dakota State University and served in the past as elected supervisor for the Minnehaha County Conservation District.