Austin News

Governor Greg Abbott has appointed Anthony “T.J.” Klein and Johnny E. Trotter and reappointed Joseph Osterkamp and Wendee Payne, Ph.D. to the Texas Animal Health Commission for terms set to expire on September 6, 2029. The Commission works to protect and enhance the health of animal populations across the state.

Anthony “T.J.” Klein of College Station is director of Texas Operations for MPS Egg Farms. He is first vice president of the Texas Poultry Federation and former president of the Texas Egg Council. Additionally, he is a member of the Texas Poultry Improvement Association, United Egg Producers, Bryan-College Station Agribusiness Council, and American Egg Board. Klein received a Bachelor of Science and Master of Science in Poultry Science from Texas A&M University.

Johnny E. Trotter of Hereford is president of Livestock Investors LTD and owner of Bar G Feedyard. He is a past president of the American Quarter Horse Association; former member of the Texas Cattle Feeders Board of Directors; and member of the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association, Texas & Southwestern Cattle Raisers Association, Texas Wheat Growers, and Texas Farm Bureau. Additionally, he is president of the executive committee for the Spicer Gripp Memorial Youth Foundation, district representative for the West Texas Rehab Cattle Auction, former board member and trustee of the American Horse Council, and former member of the Texas A&M University and West Texas A&M University VERO Advisory Council. Trotter received an honorary doctorate degree in Agricultural Business and Economics from West Texas A&M University.

Joseph Osterkamp of Farwell is owner and partner of Stonegate Farms. He is a member of the Select Milk Producers COOP and was previously a member of the Muleshoe Economic Development Corporation. He is a member and former chairman of the Texas Association of Dairymen and member and former president of the Rotary Club of Muleshoe. Osterkamp received a Bachelor of Arts in Kinesiology from Southwestern University in Georgetown.

Wendee Payne, Ph.D. of Floydada is an associate solution consultant for Infor. She is a former member of the American Society of Animal Scientists and Equine Science Society. She volunteers for the Therapeutic Riding Center at Texas Tech University and is heavily involved in Lubbock Alumnae Panhellenic as the official representative for her sorority. She is a former volunteer for Lubbock Habitat for Humanity and St. Elizabeth's Catholic Church in Lubbock. Dr. Payne received a Bachelor of Science in Agriculture and Animal Science from West Texas A&M University and Master of Science and Doctor of Philosophy in Animal Science, with an emphasis in bovine reproductive physiology and equine reproductive physiology, from Texas Tech University.

The appointments made by Governor Abbott will contribute to the efforts of the Texas Animal Health Commission in protecting and improving the health of animal populations in the state. This commission plays a vital role in ensuring the well-being and safety of animals across Texas.

These appointments include Anthony “T.J.” Klein, who brings his expertise in poultry science as the director of Texas Operations for MPS Egg Farms. Klein's experience in the Texas Poultry Federation and Texas Egg Council will be valuable in his role on the commission.

Johnny E. Trotter, the president of Livestock Investors LTD and owner of Bar G Feedyard, has an extensive background in the livestock industry. His past leadership roles in organizations such as the American Quarter Horse Association and the Texas Cattle Feeders Board of Directors will provide valuable insights to the commission.

Joseph Osterkamp, owner and partner of Stonegate Farms, brings his experience in the dairy industry to the commission. As a member of the Texas Association of Dairymen and former chairman of the Rotary Club of Muleshoe, Osterkamp has a strong understanding of the challenges and opportunities in the dairy sector.

Wendee Payne, Ph.D., an associate solution consultant for Infor, will contribute her expertise in animal science to the commission. With a background in bovine and equine reproductive physiology, Payne's knowledge will be beneficial in addressing the health needs of animals in Texas.

The appointments made by Governor Abbott demonstrate his commitment to ensuring the well-being of animals in Texas. These individuals bring a wealth of knowledge and experience to the Texas Animal Health Commission, and their contributions will be instrumental in protecting and enhancing animal populations across the state.

For additional details, please follow this link: https://gov.texas.gov/news/post/governor-abbott-appoints-four-to-texas-animal-health-commission