Zehringer to head state ag department

CELINA - State Rep. Jim Zehringer, R-Fort Recovery, confirmed this morning he will be the next director of the Ohio Department of Agriculture.

The official announcement was expected to be made by Ohio Gov.-elect John Kasich during a press conference late this morning at Wright State University Lake Campus' James F. Dicke Hall.

"I'm humbled that I've been asked and I'm honored," Zehringer said. "And after discussing (the appointment) with my family and praying on it, I came to the conclusion this is a perfect fit for me and Ohio."

Zehringer said he believes the post becomes effective Jan. 10. He would not comment further before press time this morning.

Zehringer will replace current director Robert J. Boggs, who was administered the oath of office by Gov. Ted Strickland on Jan. 24, 2007.

Zehringer was just re-elected earlier this month to his second term serving the 77th District of the Ohio House of Representatives. He initially was appointed to that seat after Keith Faber, R-Celina, was appointed to the Ohio Senate in February 2007.

Zehringer, who turned 58 last month, is the former owner and operator of the Meiring Poultry and Fish Farm, according to his website.

"As a farmer, he has been very active in addressing pressing agricultural issues along with responsible stewardship for the land," his website biography states. "He also was the vice chair of the regulatory reform taskforce and is working closely with colleagues on both sides of the aisle to address regulatory concerns."