Michigan Certified Crop Adviser Program Names New Board Members, Launches Program Website

Written By Chuck Lippstreu

Lansing, Mich. – The Michigan Certified Crop Adviser (CCA) Program today announced the appointment of new members to its state board following elections held this summer, and the launch of a new website, www.michigancca.org. These developments mark an important step forward in strengthening communication with CCAs, farmers, agribusinesses and partners across Michigan agriculture.

"Michigan’s Certified Crop Advisers are on the front lines as farmers’ trusted advisers, helping them make sound, science-based decisions every day in a world of challenge and change," said Tim Schaub with Rob-See-Co., currently the program chairman for Michigan. "The launch of a new program website for Michigan, and our new, expanded board are important steps to strengthen the program, highlight the important work of CCAs, and deliver useful continuing education opportunities for them.”

The CCA program recognizes the skills and expertise of nearly 300 professional agronomists across Michigan, and delivers continuing education to help them advance in their careers.

The program is administered in partnership with the American Society of Agronomy and plays a critical role in advancing sustainable crop production, conservation and farmer profitability. The program requires rigorous testing, ongoing education, and adherence to a professional code of ethics, ensuring Michigan farmers have access to advisers with deep technical expertise and practical experience.

Board members are elected from among currently-certified CCAs and help steer program activities. The Michigan board now includes:

  • Tim Schaub – Rob-See-Co. (Chairman)

  • Al Pung – Nutrien Ag Solutions (First Vice Chairman)

  • Keith Leighton – CHS (Second Vice Chairman)

  • Andrew Greenhoe – MAC

  • Andy Black – Keystone Cooperative

  • Chuck Lippstreu – MABA

  • Eric Barr – Helena Agri-Enterprises

  • Jeff Schulz – Valent

  • Keith Diedrick – Independent Consultant (KD Agricultural Research)

  • Kirk Hautau – Syngenta

  • Kurt Thelen – MSU

  • Lucas Costanza – Nutrien Ag Solutions

  • Marshall Jenkins – Wilbur Ellis Co.

  • Mike Philip – MDARD

  • Ryan Hegenauer – Star of the West Milling Co.

  • Sam Krhovsky – GAPS FS

  • Zayne Curtis – GAPS FS

Growers can learn more about this program and find a link to search local CCAs in their region, by visiting: www.michigancca.org.

Chuck Lippstreu