Daniel Smith Division Administrator of Agricultural Development Arena, Wisconsin Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade & Consumer Protection

What are your new responsibilities?
I am responsible for guiding the efforts of local, regional and international marketing of the state’s agricultural products. I also direct the farm and business development services available through the division to grow Wisconsin agriculture.

What territory will you cover?
The Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP) provides services to the entire state of Wisconsin.

Please describe your agricultural background.
I farmed for about 20 years in partnership with my father. We milked about 150 cows and worked 700 acres. On the farm, I was responsible for the hands-on work, employee management, farm records, ration balancing and crop production plans.

When I became a sole proprietor, I began making changes in the operation, including transforming the farm to a low-input, grass-based system. When I sold the farm, I liquidated the farm over three years, beginning with the dairy cows, equipment and finally the land. I really enjoyed my 30-plus years in farming.

What education are you bringing with you to this position?
I received a bachelor’s degree from the University of Wisconsin – Madison.

What previous positions have you held?
Most recently, I was the CEO at Midwestern BioAg July 2011. I implemented a strategic plan to accomplish the company’s long-term goals and served as the company’s spokesperson. I led a rebranding, remarketing initiative and helped build a corporate structure.

Prior to my time at Midwestern BioAg, I worked for almost two years as an Economic Advisor in DATCP’s Farm Center. I assisted farmers who were suffering economic and emotional stress due to financial difficulties. I analyzed farm loan portfolios, cash flows, balance sheets and farm management plans for individual farmers.

Who has made the biggest impact on your career?
Farmers, themselves have made the biggest impact. That has always been the case. As a boy growing up on the farm, I knew I wanted to be a farmer like my father and the other farmers we knew. I was always in awe of their abilities and work ethic. I emulated them my entire farming career.

When I left fulltime farming, I knew I wanted to utilize my experience and knowledge to assist farmers. My work in agriculture, either for the state of Wisconsin or during my time in the private sector, has allowed me to do so, and I am very grateful for that occurrence.

How will you be of most help to producers in your region or area of expertise?
I will help by providing an honest assessment of the challenges and opportunities today’s farmers and agribusinesses face, then presenting the ways and means necessary to address those issues.

We live in a rapidly changing world. I will work to utilize all the resources available to me within my position to grow and support Wisconsin’s agricultural economy. We have a wonderful, vibrant industry and message. I am excited to have this opportunity to promote Wisconsin’s agriculture to the world.

Why did you choose this company?
When I left DATCP in 2011, I really left a piece of my heart. I know that the agency makes a profound impact on Wisconsin. DATCP is full of good people doing very good work, and it is really wonderful to be back.

The Division of Agricultural Development offers so many services from marketing products locally with Alice in Dairyland and the Something Special from Wisconsin programs to the efforts of our international trade team.

The Farm Center really builds farm family relationships and helps improve farm management, as well as assist farmers in times of crisis.These mix of services help to grow Wisconsin agriculture and enhance the lives of people and businesses.

What goals would you like to accomplish while in this position?
I would like every Wisconsin farmer, farm family and agribusiness to come to rely on the Division of Agricultural Development as a key partner in their success. I would like the Division to be equipped to help farmers through times of crisis, be that related to weather, markets, or personal issues.

And beyond that, I would like the Division to be recognized and counted upon as a key partner in supporting the growth and development of the state’s agricultural economy for the betterment of all Wisconsin’s citizens.

Where do you see yourself in 5 years?
I fully expect to be at this desk, working on the goals I have outlined above. There are great opportunities ahead. It will take hard work and commitment to reach them, but those are two attributes my colleagues in the Division, as well as all those involved in agriculture, are well accustomed to. I am excited to get started. PD