Rural Roots Introduction

A few weeks ago, I had a conversation with Jake Watson about some ideas for the Bugle. Many of you may know that I have a passion for teaching others about agriculture, food, and natural resources.

Growing up, I always read Ranger Steve’s column in the newspaper. It gave me a reason, as a kid, to pick up the paper, and it helped shape my path toward becoming an Agriculture & Natural Resources educator. I also think back to my second-grade teacher, Karen Mueller, Ranger Steve’s wife, who influenced me and so many others. For those who had Karen, you were an M&M kid, influenced by her love for teaching and M&M's. Her love for natural resources was clear in everything she did in the classroom.

Jake and my conversation led to the idea of a small column focused on farming, gardening, agriculture, backyard animals, horticulture, landscaping, and natural resources, though I’m sure that doesn’t cover it all. I’m not sure how long this will last or how often I’ll write, my goal is monthly. One thing I do know is the importance of community and learning from one another.

I’ve always told my students: the network of people and the information you learn from them is more valuable than you realize. We all have that “I’ve got a guy for that” and if we don’t, we know someone who does. Networks are built on relationships, and relationships build strong communities.

For those who don’t know me, here’s a bit of background. I grew up on a small Hereford cattle and cash crop farm in Rockford. In high school, I joined CSHS FFA without realizing how much it would impact my life. I had the pleasure of having two amazing agriculture teachers, Larry Reyburn (CSHS) and Heather Pratt (KCTC). In college, I chose to pursue my passion for working with youth alongside my love for agriculture and natural resources. I graduated from Michigan State University with a degree in Agriculture, Food & Natural Resources Education and later earned my master’s in Agricultural Education.

I began my career at Cedar Springs High School and now teach Agriscience for Plants & Animals at Kent Career Technical Center. My wife, our three kids, and I run a small farm stand and have developed a love for gardening, landscaping, and of course, chickens. We enjoy being outdoors and working with the land. I spent five years working with Nutrien Ag Solutions as a crop scout, fertilizer applicator and truck driver. I have also worked as a landscape foreman for over ten years with Spaans Landscape Management and O’Dowd Lawncare & Snowplowing.

The network we are each capable of building depends on many things, but the one thing that I know matters the most is building positive relationships with each other, and being constructive with one another. It’s okay to respectfully disagree with someone if you truly mean it. Someone put it to me this way: Plant your own seed and share the results with others, but don’t force it upon them.

I’m excited to share what I’ve learned and continue learning alongside you.

After all, these are our Rural Roots.