MESSAGE FROM OUR PRESIDENT |
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Following in the footsteps of numerous great presidents, I am simultaneously excited and humbled about the large shoes I have to fill as the next ASAC President. I would be remiss if I didn’t acknowledge the expertise, dedication, and years of hard-won experience this organization signifies. The American Society of Agricultural Consultants represents the backbone of a profession that matters — not just to producers, but to the sustainability of our food system, our rural communities, and our future.
I come to the presidency with a unique perspective, representing a non-profit economic development organization serving rural Central Montana and working as an extension of the Montana Department of Agriculture. I hope to utilize this distinct view, paired with my Big Sky Country ranch kid grit, to implement some changes that will move the needle in a positive direction for this organization while maintaining the strong foundation of this organization set by inspirational leaders over the past 62 years.
To summarize my goals, by this time next year I hope to be able to display: -
an updated website that focuses on a straightforward and simple user experience
- a renewed focus on social media channels and posts that best serve the goals of the organization
- investigation of a membership renewal schedule that better aligns with the calendar year
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membership surveys to gain a clearer understanding of the value of ASAC memberships
- reinvigoration of committees to ensure our diverse membership is well represented and well served
- transparency in the leadership journey to encourage participation of new voices and ideas
So, what does this mean for current members…. Well, I challenged the conference attendees to take a moment to look internally, and I extend this challenge to you too. Revisit why you joined this organization, what this organization means to you professionally and how you want to grow to make an impact for your clients. Remember why we do this work in the first place — because we believe in agriculture that lasts. Not just for one operation. Not just for one generation. But for the long haul. Abigail Byerly president@agconsultants.org Standing Committees: Membership – Ron Rabou - raboufarms@gmail.com
Nominating – David Mielnicki - david.mielnicki@nmrk.com
By-Laws – Don Tyler - don@dontyler.com
Accreditation (CAC) Committee - Bill Zweigbaum - bill.zweigbaum@gmail.com Ethics and Grievance – Ethan Robertson - ethan.robertson@farmcrediteast.com Continuing Education – Scott Mickey - smickey@clemson.edu
Annual Meeting – Tony Ponzetti - tony.ponzetti@nmrk.com Finance – Keith Raynor - keith@trpsumner.com
Ad Hoc Committees Marketing and Promotion – Pete Weisenberger - peteweis846@gmail.com
Strategic Alliance Subcommittee – Norm Brown - norm@fbssystems.com |
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RENEW YOUR MEMBERSHIP FOR 2026 |
ASAC MEMBERS RECOGNIZED AT 2025 ANNUAL CONFERENCE |
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Warren Clark (right), owner of CCI Marketing and editor and publisher of AgNewsCenter, was presented with the prestigious “Above and Beyond Award” for his ongoing contributions to the American Society of Agricultural Consultants (ASAC) and its members. Presenting the honor during the organization’s Annual Conference in Indianapolis last week, was ASAC President David Mielnicki.
“Warren’s contributions of time and talent have been invaluable to the Society and our members,” Mielnicki stated. He cited the numerous news releases sent to promote awareness of ASAC programming, as well as Warren’s very active participation on three committees, including the conference committee. “Through Warren’s long-term involvement in the ag industry, he has cultivated a professional network that offers ASAC exceptional outreach opportunities. His expertise in communication and technology has elevated member engagement, fostering more dynamic and meaningful interactions with both current and prospective members,” Mielnicki continued. “And he keeps ASAC news and events at the forefront within the industry.”
Also honored at the event was Don Tyler (left), principle at Tyler and Associates, Clarks Hill, Indiana. In recognition of his exceptional contributions to the 2025 Annual Conference program, a special appreciation award was created and presented by Abigail Byerly, the conference chair, on behalf of the committee and the board. Byerly, from Snowy Mountain Development Corporation, Lewiston, Montana, noted that Don’s well established connections in the Indiana ag community were instrumental in the development of the program.
A third presentation was also made. A certificate of Honorary Lifetime Membership was awarded to retired member John Jackson, a Certified Agricultural Consultant (CAC), who was an active member for more than 40 years, including serving as the organization’s president. In 2023, he was presented with the ASAC Lifetime Achievement Award, which recognizes a longtime member who has provided significant contributions to the organization as well as to the agricultural industry. Presenting the certificate was, Russell Morgan, CFO, himself a past ASAC president and long-time member, who noted that the wording on the certificate typified Jackson: “With this certificate, ASAC celebrates a remarkable individual whose contributions have shaped the organization in meaningful ways. It recognizes not only past achievements, but a lifelong bond with ASAC’s mission and values."
Pete Weisenberger, another past president, accepted the certificate on Jackson’s behalf. |
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2026 ASAC Annual Conference Announced |
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The American Society of Agricultural Consultants will hold its 2026 Annual Conference in San Antonio, Texas, beginning with a reception on Sunday, November 1. Conference sessions will begin on Monday and continue through Tuesday morning. That afternoon, attendees will be touring local agriculture from approximately noon to 6 p.m. The venue for the conference is the Holiday Inn San Antonio Riverwalk, 217 North St Mary’s Street, San Antonio, TX 78205-2305
Details will be posted on the Education & Events tab of the website as they become available. |
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KEEP UP WITH THE ASAC BLOG |
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IB'S INSIGHTFUL INTROSPECTIONS |
Ib Hagsten was a longtime member of ASAC who left a lasting legacy with our organization. It is impossible to replicate Ib's wit and down-to-earth observations. In his honor, we offer these words of wisdom...
In the middle of every difficulty lies opportunity. Albert Einstein One is never so on trial as in the moment of excessive good fortune. Civil War Gen. Lew Wallace Those who trust to chance must abide by the results of chance. Calvin Coolidge |
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| President-Elect Tony Ponzetti |
| Vice President & Secretary Don Tyler |
| Chief Financial Officer
Russell Morgan, CAC |
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| Immediate Past President Dave Mielnicki, ARA |
| Executive Director Jean L Merry |
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Eastern Director Ethan Robertson, CAC |
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Western Director Ron Rabou |
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Northern Director Don Tyler |
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Southern Director Steve Richards, CAC |
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