Animal Health hires field investigator

BISMARCK, N.D. (AP) — North Dakota's Board of Animal Health has hired a field investigator, a first for the state.

Agriculture Commissioner Doug Goehring says Justin Maddock will focus on educational activities and enforcement of animal health importation rules. He starts his duties early next month.

The Legislature approved the $158,000 position earlier this year. State Veterinarian Susan Keller says the Board of Animal Health has never had a field investigator. She says having one will help guard against animal diseases such as brucellosis and bovine tuberculosis coming into North Dakota.

Maddock grew up on a farm near the town of Maddock. He holds a bachelor's degree in animal science from North Dakota State University. He has been the emergency preparedness and response coordinator with Lake Region District Health in Devils Lake since 2002. He also has beef cattle and horses.

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