AgForesty names Matt Kloes as executive director

Spokane-based AgForestry has named Matt Kloes as executive director of the organization.

Kloes has served as interim president of the organization for the past six months. Previously, he was program director of the organization for four years.

AgForestry’s hiring committee selected Kloes from a pool of 30 applicants and after two rounds of in-person interviews.

“Matt possesses a level of passion for AgForestry like none other, has fresh ideas to keep AgForestry as the premier leadership program in our state and as a Class 36 graduate, is a product of what AgForestry creates,” Michael Broeckel, chair of the organization’s board of directors, said in a statement.

AgForestry is a leadership development program in the state that offers hands-on learning for people working in agriculture, forestry, fisheries and other natural resource-based businesses.

“I am honored to lead this organization. I have witnessed firsthand the difference AgForestry makes in lives and communities in Washington state and beyond,” Kloes said in a statement. “I will work diligently with the board, staff, and our community of alumni and supporters to perpetuate and build on the incredible legacy the organization has created over the past 41 years.”