John Laatsch

John Laatsch, originally from Michigan and residing there through education at Michigan State University,  has lived in northern Indiana for the past 45 years, being connected to the land through organic vegetable farming, work as a soil scientist, and management of a nature preserve. Studies of traditional agriculture in college raised many questions with few answers, leading John to develop a growing interest in alternative agriculture. When the Land Institute was mentioned, it seemed like a great opportunity to learn and grow, and it proved to be just that. Taking a deep appreciation of the prairie with him after leaving the Land Institute, John helped to convert 15 acres of family land from cultivation to a tallgrass prairie. John continues to nurture the prairie, which is now part of a nature preserve and used for public education and as a seed bank. At The Land Institute, he interned in 1985, assisting with various breeding and propagation projects.

My most perennial trait is Conscientious – Whether working or volunteering, I strive to do what is right and complete tasks thoroughly and to the best of my ability.

1985 Intern at The Land Institute