The US Department of Agriculture is announcing leadership changes within the Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service. Michael Watson, APHIS Administrator, will retire at the end of January 2026, and Rosemary Sifford, deputy administrator for veterinary services and US chief veterinary officer, has recently retired from federal service.

Beginning Feb. 1, 2026, Kelly Moore will serve as acting administrator and effective immediately, Alan Huddleston will serve as the acting US chief veterinary officer.

Additionally, to ensure continuity during this transition, APHIS Veterinary Services Associate Deputy Administrator Adis Dijab will continue to provide operational oversight of veterinary services. APHIS operations continue uninterrupted.

Watson’s career reflects his commitment to safeguarding US agriculture, building partnerships with states and stakeholders and mentoring future leaders. Beginning his USDA career in 1994 as a plant pathologist with the Agricultural Research Service, he later held key leadership roles across multiple APHIS programs. Watson consistently championed science-based policy, ensuring APHIS decisions were grounded in data and research. His legacy is one of collaboration, integrity and dedication to public service. Watson will remain with APHIS until Jan. 31, 2026, to facilitate a seamless handoff to the incoming acting administrator.

Moore is currently acting chief operating officer for USDA’s Marketing and Regulatory Programs mission area and acting deputy administrator of marketing and regulatory programs business services. She brings extensive operational leadership experience and results-driven management, including a strong foundation of discipline from her prior service in the US Marine Corps. Moore is adept at guiding organizations through periods of change and transition and driving efficiency, compliance and innovation at scale—critical to APHIS’s mission during this pivotal time.

Sifford began her USDA career in 1997 as a Saul T. Wilson Scholar and held numerous roles across APHIS. Under her leadership and guidance, APHIS advanced major animal health efforts, including combatting highly pathogenic avian influenza — with unprecedented detections in dairy cattle — and strengthening preparedness and response for New World screwworm. Her direction ensured these efforts were grounded in science-based policy, supported by field-ready guidance and delivered with transparent stakeholder engagement. A steadfast champion of practical, proven biosecurity, Sifford worked closely with states and industry to protect animal health nationwide.

With deep expertise in epidemiology and program development, Dr. Huddleston will represent US animal health priorities internationally and maintain strong engagement with states and industry as acting US chief veterinary officer.

Source: USDA