FRANKFORT (March 30, 2021) – Commissioner of Agriculture Dr. Ryan Quarles has made the following appointments to Kentucky boards and commissions:

Commissioner Quarles has appointed David Wallace and Dr. Mark Lynn as members of the Kentucky State Fair Board.
• David Wallace, Verona, is the Chief Executive Officer of Heritage Bank. He replaces Dr. Mark Lynn, who has resigned. Mr. Wallace will serve for a term expiring May 10, 2021.
• Dr. Mark Lynn, Louisville, is an optometrist and a businessman. He fills a new seat created by House Bill 518. Dr. Lynn will serve for a term expiring March 30, 2022.

Commissioner Quarles has appointed several Kentuckians to the Industrial Hemp Advisory Board.
• Dr. Bob Pearce, Lexington, is a faculty member at the University of Kentucky. His appointment fills a vacancy on the board. Dr. Pearce will serve for the remainder of the unexpired term ending October 31, 2021.
• Dr. Dan Strunk, Bowling Green, is a faculty member at Western Kentucky University. His appointment fills a vacancy on the board. Dr. Strunk will serve for a term expiring October 31, 2023.
• Merion Haskins, Campbellsville, is a hemp grower. Mr. Haskins is reappointed to a term expiring October 31, 2023.
• Eddie Melton, Louisville, is a farmer and serves as First Vice President of Kentucky Farm Bureau. Mr. Melton is reappointed to a term expiring October 31, 2023.
• Bill Peterson, Loretto, is a hemp processor. His appointment fills a vacancy on the board. Mr. Peterson will serve for term expiring October 31, 2024.
• Dr. Tony Brannon, Murray, is the Dean of the Hutson School of Agriculture at Murray State University. Dr. Brannon is reappointed to a term expiring October 31, 2024.
• Tom Hutchens, Winchester, is a farmer. Mr. Hutchens is reappointed to a term expiring October 31, 2024.
• Katie Moyer, Dawson Springs, is a hemp processor and secretary of the Kentucky Hemp Association. Ms. Moyer is reappointed to a term expiring October 31, 2024.