Alaska Gov. Mike Dunleavy unveiled news that he has an executive order he plans to sign that would create a new department: The Alaska Department of Agriculture.
In a press release he said the department’s mission is to bolster the agricultural capacity of Alaska, and create more economic activity and food security.
Currently, there is a Division of Agriculture in the Department of Natural Resources, but a new department creates a new cabinet member.
The executive order will be introduced on the first day of the upcoming legislative session on Jan. 21.
Alaska imports about 95% of its food products.
“The COVID pandemic was a wakeup call. It revealed how much Alaska had become dependent on functioning supply chains and how quickly a disruption at West Coast ports could wreak havoc in Alaska,” said Dunleavy in a statement. “The Department of Agriculture’s mission will be to provide expert support for new and established farmers and ranchers and administer programs that improve Alaska’s food security. This will also grow the state’s economy with new jobs and commercial activity. I look forward to working with lawmakers in the upcoming session on this plan for future economic growth and greater food security for all Alaskans.”