February 15, 2012

Lansing - During today's regular meeting of the Commission on Agriculture and Rural Development, the members elected new officers for the 2012-2013 year.

Commissioner Charles Velmar Green of Elsie was elected chair replacing Don Coe of Traverse City; Commissioner Bob Kennedy of Auburn was elected as vice chair; and Commissioner Diane Hanson of Cornell was elected secretary. Coe will remain a member of the five member advisory body along with Commissioner Trever Meachum.

"I appreciate these individuals accepting new positions on the Commission as they have provided outstanding leadership in the food and agriculture industry," said Keith Creagh, director, Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development (MDARD). "Their experience and understanding of the industry will enhance our ability to meet the needs and challenges as Michigan agriculture continues to grow in the global marketplace."

The Director and Commission also recognized Don Coe for his vision and leadership as chairman of the Commission over the past year.

Green is a dairy farmer and owner of Green Meadows Farms in Elsie.

Kennedy is Vice President of Operations and General Manager of Auburn Bean and Grain Company in Auburn. Auburn Bean and Grain is a family and locally owned agronomy business established in 1970. 

Hanson is owner/operator of Hanson Farms in Cornell. Hanson Farms is a family run 1,200 acre farm producing seed potatoes, alfalfa, and oats.

The Michigan Commission of Agriculture and Rural Development is a bipartisan body appointed by the Governor to provide oversight and policy direction for MDARD's programs and approve the rules and regulations the department promulgates. 

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