WASHINGTON, Oct. 7, 2005-Agriculture Secretary Mike Johanns announced today that he has named Ross Davidson as a senior advisor on energy policy.

"Ross has substantial knowledge and background on energy issues," said Johanns. "I appreciate his loyalty, integrity and contributions to our federal crop insurance programs and look forward to his continued assistance as USDA implements President Bush's comprehensive energy policy to help meet our energy needs."

In this position, Davidson will advise and assist Johanns in coordinating implementation of the Energy Policy Act of 2005. He will also work with other departments and external organizations to help implement USDA's energy strategies, policies and programs

Since February 2002, Davidson has served as the administrator of the Risk Management Agency (RMA). In this role he helped provide economic protection to America's farmers and ranchers through federally sponsored crop insurance, expanding coverage to a record $46 billion covering 221 million acres and introducing several new and improved products for underserved areas, commodities and producers. In this capacity, he was also CEO and Manager of the Federal Crop Insurance Corporation (FCIC) and helped to implement the Agricultural Risk Protection Act of 2000.

Before joining RMA, Davidson served as vice president of industry affairs and vice president of corporate finance for United Services Automobile Association (USAA), in addition to other positions in the energy and insurance sectors. His career reflects extensive experience and innovation in public policy, insurance, corporate finance risk management, investments and financial operations.

A native of Montana, Davidson holds advanced degrees in economics and business administration from Brigham Young University. Davidson and his wife Jolene have seven children.