The Northwest Horticultural Council has hired Dan Langager as its new technical communications manager. For the horticultural council, based in Yakima, Washington, Langager will work on technical issues, including pesticides and organic standards, and will communicate information about regulations and trade to growers, packers and shippers. Langager grew up in Wenatchee, Washington. He is a graduate of Western Washington University with a bachelor’s degree in English and journalism. He previously worked as a broadcast reporter in the Wenatchee Valley and as a media relations manager for Yakima Valley Tourism.  Related: NHC welcomes two new staff members —by Ross Courtney