HARRISBURG, Pa. (WHTM) – Russell Redding was unanimously confirmed by the Pennsylvania Senate Wednesday to serve as Pennsylvania’s 27th Secretary of Agriculture.

Redding first began leading the Department of Agriculture from 2009-11 under Governor Ed Rendell and from 2015-22 under Governor Tom Wolf.

“It is an honor and privilege to serve Pennsylvania under Governor Josh Shapiro’s dedicated leadership,” Secretary Redding said. “Since our first conversation, I have been struck by his energy, experience, and vision for Pennsylvania and for agriculture. I have dedicated my life to agriculture and public service, working to advance an industry that is at the center of some of the most important issues of our time, and shapes the quality of life for every Pennsylvanian.”

Governor Josh Shapiro’s office says under Redding’s leadership, the department led a “coordinated response to the Hi-Path Avian Influenza outbreak” and supported farmers impacted by the Norfolk Southern train derailment with testing soil, water, and air in the area near the crash site.

Agriculture contributes $132 billion a year to Pennsylvania’s economy and supports 1 in 10 jobs in the state.