Bonnie Johnson
September 25, 2025
Media ArticleJoe Budd is now the Deputy Director of the Wyoming Department of Agriculture (WDA), officially starting on September 22, 2025. A sixth generation Wyomingite raised on a ranch near Lander, Budd has always focused his work and studies on agriculture and advocacy.
“We are incredibly happy and excited to have Joe join us at the Wyoming Department of Agriculture,” said Doug Miyamoto, Director of the WDA. “With his strong ag background and education, he will bring a unique skill set and fresh perspective to our department that will help us navigate through the challenges the ag industry faces in Wyoming.”
“I’m honored and excited to be back at WDA,” Budd said. “Agriculture has been an integral part of my life and career and I’m looking forward to working with our farmers and ranchers again. The industry is a key piece of Wyoming’s identity and economy and continues to represent a way of life that is worth fighting for.”
Budd’s career includes serving as Agriculture Program Coordinator and Senior Policy Analyst in the WDA’s Natural Resources and Policy division. He later became a Senior Policy Advisor for Governor Mark Gordon. Recently, he earned a Juris Doctor from the University of Wyoming College of Law and a Legum Magister from Pace University – Elisabeth Haub School of Law.
He has received several honors, including Outstanding Student at the University of Wyoming College of Law, the Wyoming Weed and Pest Council Harold P. Alley Award, the United States Forest Service Regional Forester’s Award, and the Presidential Award from the Wyoming Association of Conservation Districts.
“Joe’s drive, work ethic, legal background and deep knowledge of age and natural resources will be incredibly valuable to the efforts of the WDA,” said Miyamoto. “He is passionate about agriculture, has worked hard for the state’s agriculture industry, and knows Wyoming and the challenges we face. I am sure he will be an exemplary Deputy Director at the WDA.”
Budd holds a Bachelor of Science in Rangeland Ecology and Watershed Management, a Juris Doctor, and a Legum Magister, combining education and field experience to support Wyoming agriculture.
Photo by: agriculture.wy.gov
