Meet the Oregon Seed Council: Immediate Past President Kate Hartnell
Meet the Oregon Seed Council: Immediate Past President Kate Hartnell
ABOUT KATE
Kate Hartnell is the Immediate Past President of the Oregon Seed Council and current President of Operations for Saddle Butte Ag in Shedd, Oregon.
Kate’s grass seed story is one of love. She had lived in the valley for most of her life but was completely oblivious to the grass seed industry until she met her now husband. They started farming shortly after Kate graduated college and started working for Saddle Butte Ag as an assistant bookkeeper. Now the President of Operations for Saddle Butte Ag, she says that she’s “picked up a few things.”
WHAT INTERESTS KATE IN THE SEED INDUSTRY
When it comes to the seed industry Kate says she “appreciates the seed industry’s dedication to innovation, constantly developing new varieties to improve crop yields and resilience.”
She is excited for the industry’s “growing commitment to sustainable practices ensures a more resilient and eco-friendly agricultural future.”
WHAT KATE LOVES ABOUT THE OREGON SEED COUNCIL
Kate loves that the Oregon Seed Council is a place for collaboration and truly a place for the industry to come together. She says, “I appreciate the monthly updates from all the industry organizations and delving into detailed conversations on issues that impact the industry as a whole.”
WHAT KATE SEES FOR THE FUTURE OF THE OREGON SEED COUNCIL
“I hope to see the Oregon Seed Council continue to grow as an industry representative across multiple platforms, specifically legislative involvement at the state and national levels.”
WHAT KATE WISHES THE PUBLIC KNEW ABOUT THE OREGON SEED INDUSTRY
When asked what she wished more people know about the seed industry, she said, “I wish more people understood the vital role the seed industry, including organizations like the Oregon Seed Council, plays in global food security and agricultural sustainability.”
Kate said, “I truly believe that I work in one of the greatest industries in the world!”
WHAT DO YOU DO OUTSIDE OF WORK
When she’s not busy working, Kate enjoys hunting and camping with family and friends.
Contributed by: Mandy Vanderpool | OSC Intern
