Benjamin Tirrell has accepted the position of associate legislative counsel with the State Government Relations Department in the Public Policy and Commodity Division at Michigan Farm Bureau (MFB), beginning July 13.
Ben has deep Farm Bureau roots and a passion for Michigan agriculture. A longtime member of Eaton County Farm Bureau, he’s been an active member of the organization serving in several leadership roles at the county level as well as serving on the MFB Policy Development Committee.
Ben is also an owner and operator of Tirrell Centennial Farm, LLC, raising commercial ewes, beef cows and hay. For several years, Ben also ran Michigan’s only Grade A sheep dairy, milking 70-100 ewes and operated a manufacturing grade cheese plant that included both a wholesale and retail operation. Ben has also served as executive secretary of the Michigan Sheep Breeders Association.
“Michigan Farm Bureau has an incredible tradition of grassroots policy development,” Tirrell said. “Like many Michigan farms, several generations of my own family are a part of today's policy book. I am truly honored and excited to help carry on that tradition by working to advance policy for the members."
Most recently, Ben managed the Right to Farm Program at the Michigan Department of Agriculture and Rural Development. He played a critical role in maintaining the integrity of Michigan’s Right to Farm Program by continuing to develop the Generally Accepted Agriculture Management Practices (GAAMPs) and interacting with local officials on Right to Farm questions and concerns.
“Ben’s depth of knowledge of Michigan agriculture and his familiarity with Farm Bureau will make him a tremendous asset,” said MFB State Government Relations Manager Rob Anderson. “He brings with him an appreciation and respect for the grassroots policy effort county Farm Bureau members care so deeply about.”
Tirrell earned his bachelor's degree in agribusiness management from Michigan State University and a master's in agricultural economics from the University of Kentucky. Since 2016, he has been pursuing his doctorate in crop and soil science and environmental science and policy at Michigan State University.
Ben lives near Charlotte with his two daughters, Reagan and Amelia.