A second-generation farmer growing popcorn, corn, soybeans and wheat near Indianapolis has been selected to lead the Indiana Department of Agriculture (ISDA).
Republican Gov. Eric Holcomb announced Wednesday his appointment of Don Lamb of Lebanon to head the state agency that oversees more than $35 billion of Indiana’s annual economic output.
“In looking for a new executive director for the Indiana Department of Agriculture, it was important to find someone who would be a strong steward of our land and all that it produces,” Holcomb said. “Don truly cares about the Hoosier ag community and securing Indiana’s place as a global leader in the agricultural industry for generations to come.”
Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch is, by law, Indiana’s secretary of agriculture and rural affairs. She said she looks forward to working with Lamb.
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“Don engrained himself in the agricultural community at an early age, not just focusing on his own operation,” she said. “He has the leadership skills to not only lead the Indiana State Department of Agriculture, but to (lead) the state’s ag industry into the future.”
Lamb said taking charge of Indiana’s agriculture agency is the only job that ever could get him off the farm: “I am excited to work with the great team at ISDA and to become an even better advocate for this industry I love.”
Lamb is due to take up his new post March 13.
5 colorful spring flowers that are almost impossible to kill
Daffodils

Bright and sunny daffodils require minimal maintenance and are easy to grow. They’ll thrive in sunny spots but can also tolerate partial shade. They’re also perennial, so you’ll get to enjoy the pop of color they provide for years to come.
Pansies

Pansies are a popular spring flower thanks to their vibrant purple and yellow hues and ease of maintenance. They’re hardy enough to withstand a light frost, making them perfect for early spring. Pansies prefer partial shade but can tolerate full sun, too.
Marigolds

If you want to add a bright pop of color to your garden and repel pests at the same time, choose marigolds. This flower is a popular pick for beginner gardeners for good reason. They thrive in full sun and well-draining soil, so if you’ve had a problem with plants drying out in the past, marigolds could be the solution.
Zinnias

Need another flower that can withstand hot or dry conditions? Try zinnias. These bright and bold flowers will continue to bloom throughout the season if you deadhead the plant regularly.
Cosmos

Cosmos are an easy-to-grow flower that will add a touch of whimsy to your garden. They love full sun and well-draining soil like marigolds and zinnias. They’ll also continue to bloom through spring and summer.
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