WASHINGTON, Oct. 17, 2005 - Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns today announced the appointment of James E. Link as administrator of USDA's Grain Inspection, Packers and Stockyards Administration.

"Jim Link brings to USDA the knowledge and experiences of a lifetime in the cattle business as rancher, businessman and educator," said Johanns. "His background and service make Jim especially well suited to lead our livestock and grain regulatory services to ensure we continue to enhance the economic opportunities available to agriculture producers."

Link comes to USDA from Texas Christian University where he has been involved with the ranch management program since 1979-as assistant director, associate director and currently director. Throughout his career, Link has published numerous articles regarding the livestock industry. He is also owner of the Link Cattle Company of Crowley, Texas.

He currently serves as a committee member for the National Cattlemen's Beef Association, as director of the Texas and Southwestern Cattle Raiser's Association, on the board of directors of the Southwestern Exposition and Livestock Show, as a committee member for the State Fair of Texas and on the Tarrant County Farm Bureau Board of Directors.

Link has a bachelor's degree from Kansas State University and an MBA from Texas Christian University. He and his wife Karin have two sons and four grandchildren.