New APHIS biotechnology head named

Washington - 9/18/07 - Rebecca Bech has been named deputy administrator for biotechnology services (BRS) in the U.S. Department of Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).

"Rebecca has many years of experience with APHIS and has been with BRS since the program's inception in 2002," says APHIS Administrator Cindy Smith. "I can't think of a better person to lead BRS, and I'm pleased she's agreed to the challenge."

Bech began her career with APHIS in 1986 and held past positions including associate deputy administrator for BRS' emerging and international programs and acting BRS deputy administrator.

APHIS' mission is to protect the health and value of American agriculture and natural resources. As part of this mission, BRS is responsible for regulating the importation, interstate movement and field-testing of genetically engineered organisms. APHIS programs protect U.S. agriculture from foreign animal and plant pests and diseases, control and eradicate certain domestic pests and diseases, administrate laws pertaining to the human care of animals and carry out wildlife management activities.