The County of Stettler Agriculture Services Board (ASB) was introduced to their new manager of agriculture services recently. Introductions took place at the Oct. 15 regular board meeting.

Readers should note the ASB is comprised of members of county council and chaired by Coun. Les Stulberg.

Stulberg noted the ASB has a new manager who began work Oct. 1, and asked Rob Klatt to introduce himself.

Klatt stated he’s very happy and impressed with the County of Stettler facility and over the past 10 days has found it very easy to fit in. Klatt added that equipment, facilities and people at the County of Stettler have been excellent, it’s just the weather that hasn’t cooperated.

Klatt noted that he grew up in the High Prairie region, which is about 100 km west of Slave Lake. He noted he grew up on a mixed-operation family farm that featured Gelbvieh cattle and which also did a lot of custom work. He observed that some years the family did 27,000 acres, including what the family did on their own farm.

Klatt stated he’s got experience breaking land, seeding and cultivating and also worked in egg sales; he scouted and inspected thousands of acres of land per year.

He previously worked for Big Lakes County as ag fieldman and manager. “I took great pride in connecting myself with producers,” said Klatt to the board.

He observed that it’s very important to speak directly with the community to find out what they need.

“I really like to extend into the community and make sure that you know the ASB is representative of what the community wants,” said Klatt.

“So we’re not just mowing ditches and spraying weeds. Like, are we actually working on behalf of producers?” added Klatt.

Klatt reiterated that he is impressed with the County of Stettler organization. “I feel like there’s a great opportunity here,” he added.

Stulberg noted the ASB was happy with its new hire. “I’m very confident you’re a great fit for the community,” said the chair.

Reeve Larry Clarke added that since the Stettler call centre was closed, bringing in some extra knowledge will be beneficial to the municipality's producers.

Klatt lastly mentioned that he is scheduled to soon take his certified crop inspector exam.