BUNKHOUSE
EXCITED TO CONNECT
Foundation's Public Policy Director brings enthusiasm for California agriculture to the table by California Cattlemen's Foundation Director of Public Policy Jared Mandrell
Some of my fondest memories growing up were from my great grandparent’s property in El Nido. The property was bordered with almond orchards on three sides, yielding only to a twolane road with an irrigation canal just beyond it. There was life in every corner of the property, from the worms on the tomato plants beside the house to the dairy cattle in the pasture. This was all a stark contrast to where I lived in Morgan Hill just south of San Jose. While I didn’t know it then, I was extremely fortunate to have parents who worked to make sure we could live comfortably. Despite both growing up in the Central Valley, they had moved to the Bay Area seeking greater opportunity in their respective fields. An unintended consequence of this, was that I became disconnected from production agriculture and the industry as a whole. Once I entered high school, I found myself signing up for an agriculture class alongside some friends. What started as a mere social activity turned into a deep curiosity and interest. I began to take every opportunity to participate in leadership and career development events that were available to students. My involvement
12 California Cattleman November 2023
continued to grow throughout high school until I served as the president for the Sobrato FFA Chapter and treasurer for the South Coast Region FFA in my senior year. As I decided where to continue my education, my interest and appreciation for the agriculture industry played a large role in my eventual decision to attend Cal Poly, San Luis Obispo. Now, four years later I can honestly say that was one of the best decisions I could have made. This past June I graduated with a Bachelor of Science in Agricultural Communication with minors in Political Science and Law & Society. I was drawn to this specific coursework due to my interest in both government and agriculture. My major allowed me the opportunity to take classes in many different agricultural fields including beef cattle production, horticulture and bioresource engineering. Through the Political Science Department, I was able to learn about and get involved in, the workings of our state and national government. With my knowledge and experience, I am extremely excited to start my career with the California Cattlemen’s Foundation as the Director of Public Policy. This has given me the opportunity to be on the frontlines of state policy affecting the agriculture industry. Over time, I hope to become a trusted resource as I continue to familiarize myself with rulemaking for organizations like the State Water Resources Control Board and California Fish and Game Commission. I am honored that the work I perform will ensure that ranching will remain a viable and successful industry in California.