The department is directed and supervised by a nine-member Board of Agriculture, Trade and Consumer Protection, who serve staggered six year terms and are appointed by the governor.

[4] The first state Department of Agriculture was created in 1915 by Governor Emanuel L. Philipp, by merging the functions of these several different inspectors and regulators.

The department was led by a commissioner, appointed by the governor and confirmed by the State Senate.

The division was established as a separate Department of Markets in 1921, and granted additional powers to regulate unfair competition and trade practices.

The department was then overseen by a seven-member Board of Agriculture, who were all appointed by the governor and confirmed by the state Senate.