Goicoechea appointed ag department director

Gov. Joe Lombardo has approved the appointment of Dr. Julian Joseph (J.J.) Goicoechea as director of the Nevada Department of Agriculture, according to a news release.

“I’m excited to announce J.J. Goicoechea as the new director of the Department of Agriculture,” Lombardo said in the release. “J.J. is one of the best and brightest leaders in agriculture in Nevada, and I’m grateful for his willingness to serve our state. I know that the Department of Agriculture will greatly benefit from J.J.’s thoughtful leadership, wealth of knowledge, and decades of hands-on experience.”

Goicoechea previously served the department as state veterinarian from 2016 to 2019 and is currently serving as interim state veterinarian.

Goicoechea received his doctorate in veterinary medicine from Colorado State University and did his undergrad studies at the University of Nevada, Reno. Goicoechea has practiced veterinary medicine in rural Nevada for over 20 years and assisted with the family ranching operation in addition to his experience as Eureka County commissioner.

“I look forward to stepping into this new role and I’d like to thank Gov. Lombardo and the Nevada Board of Agriculture for the opportunity to serve as NDA director,” said Goicoechea.