Joe Magnusson is the new manager of the seed regulatory program for the North Dakota State Seed Department. He succeeds James Swanson, who retired at the end of January. Swanson led the seed regulatory program for 16 years.

Magnusson, a Roseau, Minnesota native, has served the department as seed certification manager since 1996. He also has previous regulatory experience with the department by serving as the seed regulatory supervisor on two occasions.

As program manager, Magnusson will be responsible for directing the seed regulatory inspection process, administration of labeling and fee permit systems, and investigating potential violations of state and federal seed laws. He will ensure that the regulatory program maintains state, national and international standards of quality.

He will serve as the North Dakota representative to the Association of American Seed Control Officials, which is an organization that deals with seed law enforcement and administration, and development of uniform seed laws between member states and federal agencies.

"The North Dakota seed industry is fortunate to have someone with Joe's credentials in a leadership role at the department," says Steve Sebesta, deputy seed commissioner.
"Joe has been an integral part of the NDSSD Field Seed Program for many years and has experience with other state organizations and private industry."

Magnusson assumed his new role Feb. 1.