Keystone Agricultural Producers (KAP) has welcomed Graham Schellenberg as its new communications and government relations co-ordinator.

“To continue to learn about (agriculture) and to be involved in such great work is something I’m really excited about,” Schellenberg told the Co-operator.

Schellenberg began his job with Keystone Agricultural Producers at the beginning of the month.

Prior to joining KAP, Schellenberg worked for the province as a policy analyst and assistant to the Government Whip. This included working closely with Manitoba Agriculture and Resource Development.

He has also worked as a reporter, radio announcer and producer with Golden West Broadcasting and the Niverville Citizen.

Schellenberg grew up in Rosenfeld, near Altona.

Along with his Mennonite history, he has pursued interests in western Canadian history. This has included working for the Neubergthal Heritage Foundation, which oversees the historic Mennonite village of Neuberg­thal.

Schellenberg has written about western Canadian history. He is working on a community history of a now-defunct school district near Altona. It weaves together issues like religion, agriculture, and gender.

He also enjoys reading, photography and travelling.

KAP is also seeking to replace its general manager. Patty Rosher was recently appointed assistant chief commissioner of the Canadian Grain Commission, a post she’ll be taking up later this winter after the KAP annual general meeting.