Annual Meeting

Board Candidate
Dale Bartee:

My name is Dale Bartee, and I am a native of the San Luis Valley. Together with my wife and two sons, we farm northeast of Center. Both of my grandparents were pioneer farmers in this region, and we count it an honor to be the fourth and fifth generations to farm our land.

Our farm’s focus has always been on conservation and sustainability, which is why we transitioned to organic several years ago. Additionally, nearly all our electricity usage is offset by our solar fields. Historically, we have raised a variety of crops from the traditional potatoes, small grains, and alfalfa that are common to our valley, to more diverse crops such as quinoa and flax. We also raise registered Polled Herefords. Our older son, Tyler, runs a flock of commercial sheep. This diversification gives me a dynamic perspective on the current trends in the various aspects of the agricultural industry.

I have a deep passion for the continued success of the San Luis Valley and each of its communities. I recognize the important role that the Monte Vista COOP plays in this success. Not only does the COOP bring key products and services to our communities, it does so at fair market prices while also providing dividends and many benefits to you, its members.

I have counted it a high honor to have served on the Coop’s board of directors for the past nine years and as the chairman of this board for the past two years. My goal, should I be re-elected to this board, is to continue working with my fellow board members in supporting and guiding Eric as he leads this organization to continued success. Despite the water shortages, changing legal landscape, and the many other challenges that our valley faces, I believe in the future of agriculture in the San Luis Valley; I believe that the Monte Vista COOP is pivotal in ensuring this future.

Board Candidate
Tyler Mitchell:

My name is Tyler Mitchell and my wife Melissa and I have two children, Madeline (16) and Sophia (14). We are part of a farming operation in the Sargent area. I farm alongside my brother Clay, where we raise potatoes, rye, and green manure cover crops under center pivot irrigation. I received my bachelor’s degree in Bio-Resource and Agricultural Engineering from Colorado State University.

I am currently a board member of the Monte Vista Coop, as well as the chairman of the Colorado Potato Administrative Committee which is a marketing order committee for the Colorado potato industry, and also serve on the National Potato Council which is a national representative of the potato industry on legislative and regulatory matters.

I would like to continue to serve on the board because I believe the Monte Vista Coop is very important for our Ag Industry and our community here in the San Luis Valley. I have learned a lot over the last 3 years about the business and operations of the Monte Vista Coop. If elected I will continue to use my experience as a business owner, as well as my previous board experiences in making decisions that will help the Monte Vista Coop continue to successfully serve the needs of the agriculture industry and the community.