The National Sorghum Producers board of directors elected Don Bloss, sorghum farmer from Pawnee City, Nebraska, as chairman at the annual August board meeting.

“Don Bloss is an experienced voice in the sorghum industry, having served previously as the chair of NSP’s Legislative Committee,” said Tim Lust, NSP CEO. “We look forward to his contributions and insights as NSP engages in discussions related to the next farm bill.”

The NSP board of directors also elected Dan Atkisson from Stockton, Kansas, as vice chairman. James Born from Booker, Texas, moves to the past chairman position. Mike Battin of Chromatin Inc., who serves as the industry member on the NSP board, was also re-elected to a second term.

In addition to electing officers, the NSP board of directors appointed three new members who will serve a three-year term beginning Oct. 1, 2016: Bobby Nedbalek from Sinton, Texas; Kody Carson from Olton, Texas; and Larry Earnest of Star City, Arkansas.  

“We welcome these new leaders and are excited to have their representation and diverse experiences on the NSP board of directors,” said Bloss. “There are crucial issues our board will face in the coming year, and we look forward to their assistance in moving the sorghum industry forward.” 

Nedbalek farms in South Texas and is a member of Texas Regional Water Planning Group, San Patricio County Economic Development Corporation and the South Texas Cotton and Grain Association. Nedbalek hopes to utilize his experience to work with industry leaders and consumers in promoting the sorghum industry.

Carson is an active member in his local West Texas community where he farms. He is also involved with the Ag Producers Co-op and Plains Cotton Cooperative Association. Carson wants to capitalize the strengths within the sorghum industry when working on legislative and marketing matters.

Earnest farms in southeastern Arkansas and is currently involved in the National Research Center Administrators Society and the Southern Association of Agricultural Scientists. Earnest plans to work on increasing awareness of the value of sorghum and linking the importance of sustainable agriculture to both the public and world leaders.

On Oct. 1, 2016, three members departed from the NSP board of directors: Blake Tregellas from Perryton, Texas; Sam Simmons from Harlingen, Texas; and Terry Swanson from Walsh, Colorado.

“These directors have served our industry well during their tenure on the NSP board of directors,” Bloss said. “We appreciate their time and devotion to the industry and the legacy they leave to future sorghum leaders.”