Rick Hansen – Founder

Rick Hansen's background is in agriculture and environmental stewardship. Rick was elected to the Minnesota State Legislature in 2004, 2006, and 2008. He represents an area of northern Dakota County, Minnesota and serves on several Environment committees.

He has received several awards for his leadership in protecting and enhancing our environment:

• 2008 Minnesota Association of Soil & Water Conservation Districts "Legislator of the Year Award" for outstanding contributions to the conservation of our soil and water resources.
• Friends of the Parks and Trails of St Paul and Ramsey County "Public Service Award" for outstanding service in the promotion of parks & trails. (June 25, 2009)
• "River Hero Award" The Board of Directors and Staff of Friends of the Mississippi River gratefully recognize Representative Rick Hansen for his outstanding leadership in the successful effort to pass Mississippi River Critical Area Reform Legislation in 2009.

It is important to carry environmental leadership into practice on our farm as well. We implement and maintain grassed waterways for erosion control. We cut invasive species like buckthorn and replace with native grasses and trees. This helps enhance wildlife and biological diversity. Throughout the year, we will keep you updated on these activities.

Rick manages his family farm in Southern Minnesota, which is located near several Amish farmsteads. Rick's relationship with the Amish community began several years ago when his uncle passed away. Members of the community helped to round up his cattle and watch after the farm in the absence of Rick's uncle. They also helped on several other projects in the coming years -- fencing, roofing, and even a bit of fine woodworking. This was the beginning of a several-year-long relationship that led to the creation of Harmony Cedar.

Suzanne works as the Sustainability Manager for Macalester College in St. Paul. Evan just finished kindergarten at Lincoln Center Elementary School in South St. Paul. This summer he is going to YMCA summer camps and will be participating in Dinosaur Camp at the Minnesota Science Museum. He has been helping plant the garden and loves catching toads and fishing.