Associated Press - July 3, 2009 7:05 AM ET

WASHINGTON (AP) - Wyoming has a new state director for rural development.

The Obama administration announced on Thursday that Derrel Carruth has been appointed to the job.

Agriculture Secretary Tom Vilsack says that Carruth will be an important advocate for rural communities throughout the state. Carruth will help to administer USDA programs.

Carruth had retired from the USDA after 31 years in Rural Development and its predecessor agency, the Farmers Home Administration. He also serves on the board of the Casper College Alumni Association.

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