New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture Douglas H. Fisher has announced the appointment of Joe Atchison III of Cherry Hill, as director of the New Jersey Department of Agriculture’s Division of Marketing and Development. Atchison has served as coordinator of Agricultural Development conducting outreach to many agricultural organizations in the state. He also has managed the development of creative messaging and marketing plans for the Jersey Fresh program. Atchison joined the New Jersey Department of Agriculture in 2005 as a Marketing Specialist supporting the Director of Marketing.

Atchison earned a Bachelor of Science degree from Rutgers University after majoring in Management and Marketing.

“I look forward to continuing the relationships we have built over the years and working to develop new relationships with growers, producers, retailers and others crucial to the agricultural industry in the Garden State,” Atchison said.

The Division of Marketing and Development plays a critical role in enhancing the markets of New Jersey farm products by developing and expanding markets, both here and abroad. The Division provides regulatory and service programs to the agricultural community and the public.

The Bureau of Market Development and Product Promotion and the Economic Development section helps farmers access new markets, as well as working to improve bottom line efficiencies on the farm. Inspectors from the Bureau of Commodity Inspection and Grading ensure that the public receives quality produce, seafood, poultry and egg products.

The agricultural chemistry bureau inspects and certifies various fertilizers and feeds purchased by New Jersey farmers. The Equine Industry programs provide equine services as well as administer the Sire Stakes program.