The Sconi

Randy Romanski, Secretary of the Wisconsin Department of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection (DATCP), has been appointed President of the Midwestern Association of State Departments of Agriculture (MASDA). The appointment was made during a meeting in Arkansas in September.

In a statement, Romanski said, “I am humbled to have the opportunity to serve a term as MASDA President. I look forward to representing Wisconsin in important policy discussions and collaborating with my colleagues from across the Midwest.”

MASDA is an organization that brings together Commissioners, Secretaries, and Directors of Agriculture from 13 Midwestern states: Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, South Dakota, and Wisconsin. Members meet both virtually and in person throughout the year to discuss agricultural policy issues affecting the region.

As part of his responsibilities as president, Romanski will host the upcoming MASDA Regional Meeting in Wisconsin from June 22 to 24, 2026. The event is expected to feature a business meeting along with panel discussions and industry tours.

In addition to his new leadership role at MASDA, Romanski also serves as Vice President of another non-profit organization that focuses on promoting trade between Midwestern food suppliers and international importers. This group convened during the National Association of State Departments of Agriculture (NASDA) Annual Meeting and works year-round to support trade opportunities for regional producers.

Romanski emphasized Wisconsin’s commitment to expanding its agricultural exports. “Wisconsin is committed to growing its agricultural exports, and the state's farms and agribusinesses have much to offer international buyers,” he said. “DATCP is pleased to partner with Food Export-Midwest to strengthen existing trading relationships and enter new global markets.”

The recent NASDA Annual Meeting focused on securing the future through agriculture. Topics addressed included animal agriculture policy, marketing strategies for international trade expansion, as well as food systems and nutrition concerns.

NASDA is a nonpartisan association comprising all 50 U.S. states and four territories. More information about NASDA can be found at their official website.