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Burleson Smith, with experience in crop protection chemicals, fertilizers, and national agricultural affairs, was named vice president of environmental affairs and sustainability for the United Fresh Produce Association. He starts his new position on April 1.
Smith will lead the United Fresh Foundation’s Center for Global Produce Sustainability, which was established in 2009 through a founding grant from Bayer CropScience. Smith will help develop programs linking the produce supply chain from farm to consumer, advancing environmental responsibility, social acceptability, and economic viability of the fresh produce industry, according to a news release.
Smith was most recently with the Policy Navigation Group, providing consulting services on natural resource and environmental issues. Before that, he was director of pest management policy at the U.S. Department of Agriculture, appointed by the Bush Administration, from 2002-2009. At USDA, he advised the deputy secretary on pesticide and environmental policy, served as agricultural liaison to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and provided agricultural expertise to other agencies.
He worked in private industry for Kemira Agro, a manufacturer of specialty fertilizer products, for American Cyanamid Company and BASF after its purchase of American Cyanamid. In the mid 1980s, he worked with the National Fertilizer Solutions Association.
Smith is a Texas A & M University alumnus, receiving his master’s degree in soil science and bachelor’s degree in plant and soil science.
The United Fresh Produce Association Foundation, established in 1998, is a non-profit organization dedicated to increasing the availability of fresh fruits and vegetables to children. The Foundation offers educational programs, leadership development, public outreach, and industry training for industry members. Learn more by visiting www.unitedfresh.org.
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