Gov names Lucas Lentsch ag secretary as Bones retires

PIERRE. (AP) — The South Dakota Department of Agriculture is getting a new leader.

Agriculture Secretary Walt Bones has announced that he’s retiring from his position effective April 29. The Parker native says he’s returning to his farm.

Gov. Dennis Daugaard says he’s appointing Lucas Lentsch of Pierre to replace Bones.

Daugaard says the 39-year-old Lentsch is well-known across the state and well-respected in the ag community. He says Lucas will be an effective advocate for South Dakota’s farmers and ranchers.

Lentsch serves on the board of directors of South Dakota Agricultural and Rural Leadership Inc. He earned his Bachelor of Science in Agriculture from South Dakota State University, majoring in dairy manufacturing.