Meet Edge Vice President: Mike Crinion

Tell us a bit about yourself and your farm.

I’m originally from Ireland. My wife Patricia and our three daughters moved here in 2004 to expand our farming operations. I’m currently a managing partner of Ash Grove Dairy in Lake Benton, Minn. In addition to serving on the Edge board, I’m also the Chair of U.S. Farmers & Ranchers in Action (USFRA).

Tell us why you are committed to the organization and what it means to your farm. 

Dairy farmers need a strong, independent voice to advocate for their interests. Edge has a solid track record, consistently placing dairy farmers at the center of its decision-making process. The organization is forward-thinking and innovative. It’s important that we support and protect the good work that farmers are doing together. 

What are some challenges the dairy community is facing today that you feel our organization can take steps to address?

Immigration issues create challenges for farmers, and Edge has worked tirelessly to improve this for multiple years. A lot has been done, but there’s more to do to create a proper immigration system that’s suitable for the dairy community and the wider community.

What are you currently enjoying the most in your role as vice president, and what are you looking forward to in the months ahead?

I am passionate about creating diverse revenue streams for farmers, including the potential for them to monetize their carbon credits and be compensated for their important work in soil health.