John McMillan, a longtime Alabama leader in conservation and forestry, has announced that he will run for Alabama Commissioner of Agriculture and Industries.
McMillan has served as Commissioner of the Alabama Department of Conservation of Natural Resources. He was twice elected to the House of Representatives and was Executive of the Alabama Forestry Association, the state trade association for the forest products industry, for 23 years.
“I’ve been blessed with the opportunity to be in a position to make important decisions that affect the citizens of Alabama,” the 67 year old candidate from Baldwin County said last week.
As Commisioner of the Department of Conservation and Natural Resources McMillan worked hard to protect private property rights through stronger trespass laws, regulations and legislation. During his tenure as Commissioner more legislation was passed to enhance and protect our wildlife resources than at any time in history.
McMilllan was instrumental in the creation of the Alabama Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus, an organization that serves as a forum for uniting legislators and outdoor interests to work together to guide policy decisions that enhance hunting and fishing opportunities and natural resources for present and future generations.
As Conservation Commissioner McMillan played a major role in rebuilding Gulf State Park after Hurricane Frederick and administered the 449 million dollar offshore oil and gas lease sale which led to the establishment of the Alabama Trust Fund.
During his tenure at the Alabama Forestry Association, McMillan also chaired the Alabama Civil Justice Reform Committee which has played a key role in reforming Alabama’s judicial system. He currently also serves on the Alabama State Personnel Board.
McMillan understands that the Department of Agriculture has a broad range of duties, including promoting Alabama agricultural products overseas, operating farmers’ markets across the state, licensing and regulating agricultural businesses, monitoring food products for safety, inspecting scales throughout the state, and inspecting gas pumps for proper measurement and quality.
McMillan said his diverse background gives him the knowledge to guide the Department of Agriculture and Industries in tough economic times with budget constraints.
“The next 4 years will require elected leaders who know how to get the job done with less taxpayers’ dollars, and at the same time assure Alabamians of a safe and economical food and fiber supply. John and his wife Kathryn have two sons and two grandchildren and are members of the Stockton Presbyterian church where John has served as Deacon and Elder.
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