The U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) today announced important leadership changes within the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS). Dr. Michael Watson, APHIS Administrator, will retire at the end of January after decades of distinguished service, and Dr. Rosemary Sifford, Deputy Administrator for Veterinary Services and U.S. Chief Veterinary Officer, has recently retired from federal service after a similarly notable career. Beginning on February 1, 2026, Ms. Kelly Moore will serve as Acting Administrator and effective immediately, Dr. Alan Huddleston will serve as the Acting U.S. Chief Veterinary Officer. Additionally, to ensure continuity during this transition, APHIS Veterinary Services Associate Deputy Administrator Dr. Adis Dijab will continue to provide operational oversight of Veterinary Services. APHIS operations continue uninterrupted, guided by science-based policies, strong stakeholder engagement, and experienced acting leaders to ensure program continuity. APHIS remains steadfast in its mission to protect the health, welfare, and value of our Nation’s plants, animals, and natural resources—continuing to deliver solutions and essential services that safeguard U.S. agriculture and support stakeholders nationwide.
“Dr. Watson and Dr. Sifford are dedicated public servants and we greatly appreciate their time at USDA, serving American farmers and ranchers, and protecting the national security of the United States. I am so grateful for their extended service to support the Trump Administration during such a critical time for American agriculture,” said U.S. Secretary of Agriculture Brooke L. Rollins. “The team at APHIS plays a critical role in protecting our food supply from foreign pests like the New World Screwworm, as well as fighting diseases like bird flu. I have the utmost confidence in Ms. Moore, Dr. Huddleston, and Dr. Dijab in continuing this critical mission and defending American agriculture.”
“Dr. Watson and Dr. Sifford exemplify the best of public service. Their leadership and commitment to collaboration strengthened APHIS and the nation’s animal and plant health systems,” said Dudley Hoskins, Under Secretary for Marketing and Regulatory Programs. “These are consequential changes at a pivotal moment for the agency, and I am confident that Ms. Moore, Dr. Huddleston, and Dr. Dijab will not only serve as steady hands for program continuity but will lead APHIS into a new era.”
Dr. Watson’s notable career reflects his unwavering commitment to safeguarding U.S. agriculture, building strong partnerships with States and stakeholders, and mentoring future leaders. Beginning his USDA career in 1994 as a plant pathologist with the Agricultural Research Service, he later held key leadership roles across multiple APHIS programs. Dr. Watson consistently championed science-based policy, ensuring APHIS decisions were grounded in rigorous data and research to protect U.S. agriculture and maintain public trust. His legacy is one of collaboration, integrity, and dedication to public service. Dr. Watson will remain with APHIS until January 31 to facilitate a seamless handoff to the incoming Acting Administrator, ensuring continuity and stability during this leadership transition.
Source : usda.gov