Lynne Richmond
(609)292-8896
lynne.richmond@ag.state.nj.us

(TRENTON) – New Jersey Governor Jon S. Corzine has asked Charles M. Kuperus to continue to serve as New Jersey Secretary of Agriculture.

“In order to build a better New Jersey, all aspects of our economy must be thriving. Charles Kuperus understands this,” said Corzine. “And he also recognizes the unique challenges facing New Jersey’s farmers and agricultural community. I am pleased he has agreed to be part of my administration.”

Kuperus has served as Secretary since 2002. During that time, the Department developed an Agricultural Smart Growth Plan, enacted one of the nation’s toughest school nutrition policies, advocated for agricultural interests to use alternative energy, made great strides in eradicating the Asian longhorned beetle from the Middlesex/Union County and Jersey City/Hoboken infestation areas, and led the effort to ensure that Avian Influenza is controlled and eradicated in the state’s live bird markets.

“In the past four years the Department protected the public from dangerous diseases and pests, assisted students in making healthier food choices, worked to preserve farmland for New Jersey’s future, and helped farmers continue to be good stewards of the environment,” said Secretary Kuperus. “We will carry on our work with our federal and state partners and constituents to ensure that the agriculture, food and fishing industries will thrive and continue to be an important sector of New Jersey’s economy. Through these efforts, we will be able to keep the Garden in the Garden State, now and into the future. I am pleased and proud that Governor Corzine has recognized our good work and has shown confidence that we can build on our record of accomplishment.”

Kuperus was raised in Sussex Borough on the family dairy farm, later founding his own nursery and garden center. He was previously first vice president of the New Jersey Farm Bureau and a member of the State Planning Commission. From 1987 to 1992, Secretary Kuperus served on the Sussex Borough Council. For more information on Kuperus, visit www.state.nj.us/agriculture/about/secr/secretary.html