May 3, 2021

Leaders appointed to Michigan Asparagus Marketing Program Advisory Board

Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer on April 23 named individuals appointed to the Asparagus Marketing Program Advisory Board.

Kevin Burmeister, of Shelby, is the manager of Lakeshore Farms Inc. He is appointed to represent at-large growers for a term commencing April 23, 2021 and expiring Nov. 13, 2023. He succeeds Thomas J. Oomen whose term expired Nov. 13, 2020.

Scott Hassle, of Decatur, is a partner with Berrybrook Enterprises. He holds an Associate of Arts and Science in Agribusiness from Michigan State University. He is appointed to represent Southern Michigan growers for a term commencing April 23, 2021 and expiring Nov. 13, 2023. He succeeds Victor Lee Shank whose term expired Nov. 13, 2020.

Nicholas F. Oomen, of Hart, is the owner and manager at Oomen Brothers Inc. He holds an agricultural industries certificate from Michigan State University. Oomen is reappointed to represent at-large growers for a term commencing April 23, 2021 and expiring Nov.  13, 2023.

William C. Schwass, of Scottville, is co-owner and manager of Springdale Farms LLC. He holds a diesel and heavy equipment certificate from West Shore Community College. He is appointed to represent at-large growers for a term commencing April 23, 2021, and expiring Nov. 13, 2023. He succeeds Tracey Butler whose term expired Nov. 13, 2020.

John Williams, of Hart, is the owner of John Williams Farms and a retired United States Postal Service carrier. He attended Michigan State University for a certificate in horticulture. Williams is reappointed to represent at-large growers for a term commencing April 23, 2021 and expiring Nov. 13, 2023.

The Michigan Asparagus Advisory Board seeks to promote the production and consumption of asparagus grown in Michigan as well as to assist in the agricultural research and development of asparagus farming.

These appointments are subject to the advice and consent of the Michigan Senate.