East Troy, WI – After three decades of transformative leadership, the Michael Fields Agricultural Institute (MFAI) announces the departure of Margaret Krome from her role as Policy Director. Krome, who has led MFAI’s policy program since 1995, will step into independent policy consulting, continuing to advance sustainable agriculture through targeted initiatives. MFAI is also proud to announce that Chuck Anderas has been appointed as the new Policy Director. Anderas brings a decade of experience in organizing, coalition-building, and food systems advocacy, and has worked closely with Krome as a member of the MFAI Policy Team for four years.
Krome built MFAI’s Federal and State Policy Advocacy Program around a simple but dynamic vision: that democratic processes should empower people to direct resources toward a just and sustainable agricultural future. Under her leadership, MFAI played a key role in passing landmark legislation in Wisconsin, including the Buy Local, Buy Wisconsin program, the Farm to School initiative, and expansions to sustainable agriculture research at the University of Wisconsin–Madison.
At the national level, Krome was instrumental in the formation of the National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC), where she has remained a collaborator in Farm Bill advocacy. Her work has consistently uplifted the voices of working farmers, supported environmental resilience, and championed policies that foster local food systems and equitable opportunities in agriculture.
“Margaret’s departure marks the end of an era. Her passion, persistence, and deep commitment to sustainable agriculture have left a lasting imprint on this organization and the broader movement,” said Ryan Martin, MFAI Executive Director. “We are excited to see her step forward into a consulting role and look forward to many years of continued collaboration.”
Krome is known in Wisconsin and beyond as a mentor and collaborator. Many current advocates and leaders in sustainable agriculture got their start under her guidance. Her commitment to relationship-building and coalition work has been a defining feature of her career.
In her farewell remarks at a recent celebration, Krome shared: “I’m stepping down to take on what I hope will be a vigorous but less intense consulting role. My first project already has my blood stirring, and I hope I’ll keep working with many of you. Our movement is so deeply important to me—as are you, as friends and individuals. I look forward to cheering from the sidelines as your most raucous fan!”
“Congratulations on taking the next step in your fantastic adventure,” said MFAI Board Chair Una Van Duvall. “Undoubtedly, your impact on MFAI has been profound and will be long-lasting. However, that is also the case regarding your impact on regenerative agriculture in the United States and beyond.”
Michael Fields Agricultural Institute is a non-profit organization that has been cultivating resilience through research, education, and policy work since 1984. With a broad coalition of public and private partners, the Institute supports farmers, food systems and communities in the Upper Midwest through a range of programs and initiatives anchored at their East Troy, WI, research farm. Find more information at michaelfields.org. Follow along on Instagram and Facebook for the latest news and events.
