Location: Waseca, Minn.
Co-op: Crystal Valley Cooperative
Co-op leadership role: Craig chairs the local corn and soybean producer board.
Operation: Corn and soybean production, plus helping on other family-run acres and a custom hog-finishing operation.
Family: Craig and Michelle have two sons, Bjorn and Cullen
Education: Craig earned bachelor’s degrees in theology and Christian education. Michelle earned bachelor’s degrees in physical education and health education.
How does your co-op support your farm? “The local elevator in Mankato, Minn., gives us access to the local and global soybean market.”
Why are you committed to agriculture? “Agriculture is such an integral part of our family’s life and our local community’s economy. Being stewards of the land and growing food for the nation and the world is important and rewarding.”
How can the cooperative system serve new generations? “Through continued market access, training and education and competitive input pricing.”
How has participating in CHS New Leaders Forum benefited you? “The forum gave me deeper understanding of the co-op system and helped me become a regional leader in agriculture.”
“It takes a co-op to succeed.”
