Minnesota Agriculture Commissioner David J. Frederickson has named Susan E. Stokes to the position of assistant commissioner for the Minnesota Department of Agriculture (MDA). Stokes brings a wealth of experience working with Minnesota farmers and farm organizations, having spent 14 years at the Farmers’ Legal Action Group, Inc. (FLAG) in St. Paul, first as FLAG’s legal director and then as the organization’s executive director.
Most recently Stokes has been a partner practicing agricultural law with Hellmuth and Johnson LLP in Edina.
“Susan has built and maintained excellent relationships with farmers and farm organizations across the state,” said Commissioner Frederickson. “She possesses intimate knowledge and understanding of Minnesota’s farm programs and ag policy issues. I believe the legal experience and leadership skills she’ll bring to the MDA will be invaluable as we work with our ag sector to address many ongoing and emerging challenges.”
As Assistant Commissioner, Stokes will oversee three of the MDA’s regulatory divisions – Pesticide and Fertilizer Management, Dairy and Meat Inspection, and Food and Feed Safety, as well as the agency’s Laboratory Services. She began her new duties on Nov Dember 21.
