Tess Van Gorder grew up in Troy — the one in Oakland County, not Upstate New York or northwestern Turkey. Both her parents worked in the automotive industry, but that didn’t rub off on her, which ended up being a good thing for Michigan’s farmers.
“A little ironically, both my brother and I ended up working in agriculture,” she said before laying this egg: “He attended Michigan State University, while I attended That Other School That Shall Not Be Named.”
Yup, I know. But keep reading.
“I didn’t grow up on a farm, but mom says when I was little I did charm a farmer into teaching me how to milk a cow at the state fair.
“My family will tell you I’m passionate about Michigan-grown food, from sweet cherries to barbecue ribs and Michigan wine. I love visiting our members on their farms and learning about all the work that goes into the food, fuel and fiber produced across the state.”
Speaking of work, for the past four years Tess has served Michigan Farm Bureau — and members like you — as our Conservation & Regulatory Relations Specialist. She works across a variety of environmental issues, from agricultural recycling and carbon/ecosystem services credits to helping keep Saginaw Bay clean and its fishery healthy.
She’s also Farm Bureau’s point person for the Michigan Manure Hauler Certification Program and is well versed in groundwater discharge permitting.
See, for a Wolverine, Tess is alright!
“Before Farm Bureau I played water polo for about 10 years — and would love to get back into it if I ever have the chance as an adult.
“Otherwise I’m an avid reader, enjoy traveling, trying and cooking new foods, and spending time with my family, especially at our place on Manistee Lake.”
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