Chris Bardenhagen

Chris Bardenhagen farms with his father on their family farm in Leelanau County, northern Michigan.  He became interested in organic agriculture while learning about plant and soil nutrition, and began raising poultry, hay and small grains organically in addition to helping manage the family's tree fruit farm.  Chris and his dad are working together to transition the farm's 20 acres of tart cherries to organic, with some certified and the rest on the way.

Chris became involved with organic farmers and researchers while learning about the science and art of growing food organically, and in doing so became interested and involved in organic policy advocacy.  He joined the Michigan Organic Food and Farm Alliance board of directors in 2008 and has been involved in advocacy both at the state and national level. 

Chris decided to take his policy work to a new level by returning to school and pursuing a law degree. His goal is to work with local food hub, regional and state food system efforts, and plans to continue to advocate for organics at the state and national levels either personally or professionally. He continues to be involved with his family's farm. Chris currently lives in Ann Arbor while attending Wayne State University Law School and is a member of Slow Food Huron Valley.