State trooper to head Nevada animal industry division

Doug Farris, a former Nevada state trooper has been named administrator of the state's Department of Agriculture's (NDA) animal industry division, the department said in a recent release.

Farris will be responsible for the management of the division that includes regulatory, testing, inspection, licensing, certification and service programs statewide, the release said. His duties will include responsibility for overseeing animal identification, veterinary medicine and two associated laboratories, commercial feed registration, biological licensing, agricultural enforcement, and USDA APHIS cooperative agreements on animal disease traceability, among other duties. He will work closely with the state veterinarian, the release said.

Farris, who has served as a Nevada state trooper since 2009, is Nevada Police Officer Standards and Training certified, and brings his public safety background and experience with him to the new position, the release said.

“As a state trooper, Doug is experienced in investigation, reporting and training, which will be a huge asset to our animal industry services,” NDA Director Jim Barbee said the release. “We are happy to have Doug continue his public service, and his service to the state here at the NDA.”

Farris also was co-owner of the Farris Cattle Company managing a 200-head cow/calf operation along with 450 acres of pasture and alfalfa hay, the release said.