Current employer:
Goosmann Law Firm

Education and work experience:
University of Minnesota, MBA, Carlson School of Management Executive Program
University of Iowa, J.D., International Law Program, Arachon, France
University of Iowa, B.B.A. Economics and Finance

• Buena Vista University Professor in Business, Social Responsibility, Entrepreneurship, Business Law, Financial Accounting, and Cost Accounting courses.
• Owner/Partner, Sackett Law Firm, P.C
• Assistant Attorney, Clay County Iowa
• CFO, Arbor Snowboards, Inc.
• In-House Counsel, TheBrain Technologies
• CFO / In-House Counsel, California Waste Services
• In-House Counsel, F.W. Carson Companies
• In-House Counsel, ATI Title Company
• Legal Consultant, Global Climate Coalition

AALA leadership roles:
2024 symposium planning committee

How did you get interested or involved in agricultural law?
My interest in agricultural law developed through years of experience working with agricultural clients and supporting rural community growth. My legal practice spans various areas, including business transitions, tax, and real estate, giving me firsthand insight into the unique challenges facing the agricultural sector. I’ve had the opportunity to serve as lead counsel on impactful cases, such as negotiating with the USDA for compensation related to avian influenza and helping to create insurance products for affected flocks. These experiences deepened my commitment to supporting agricultural businesses and navigating the complex regulatory and financial issues they encounter.

What is your current role and what type of work are you doing?
Managing partner, Business Practice Area group leader

What are some challenges and opportunities you see in your job and the ag law profession?
The field of agricultural law is at an exciting juncture, filled with both unique opportunities and complex challenges. With emerging technologies like blockchain transforming practices, one of the key challenges we face is navigating regulatory compliance. Blockchain’s potential to improve transparency and traceability in agriculture also raises questions about data ownership, privacy, and energy consumption. As agricultural supply chains increasingly span international borders, lawyers must address cross-jurisdictional issues, especially concerning sustainability and conservation. Additionally, establishing trust around data sharing among farmers and stakeholders is crucial. Privacy concerns and a general unease around digital systems mean that robust legal frameworks and assurances are needed to protect stakeholders’ rights while promoting transparency.

At the same time, these challenges open new doors for agricultural law professionals to make a significant impact. By helping clients implement blockchain solutions for provenance and transparency, we can support compliance efforts and add market value to agricultural products. There is growing consumer demand for verified sustainable practices, presenting a valuable opportunity for legal experts to certify and market these credentials, gaining clients a competitive edge. Ag lawyers also play a critical role in structuring conservation agreements and guiding clients through climate-smart agriculture initiatives. From enabling partnerships across tech and agriculture to shaping policy and advocating for sustainable innovation, ag law professionals have the chance to lead the industry toward a future that balances economic growth with environmental stewardship.

How does AALA help or benefit your profession or current role?
The AALA provides invaluable support to the legal profession by offering a network for attorneys who face the unique challenges and opportunities within agricultural law. As ag lawyers, we navigate complex regulatory landscapes around emerging technologies like blockchain, as well as sustainability mandates that affect everything from land use to cross-border compliance. Through the AALA, we gain access to resources, continuing education, and collaborative opportunities that keep us informed on evolving issues like data privacy, conservation, and climate-smart agriculture. This organization also fosters partnerships and policy advocacy, enabling us to lead in shaping sustainable agricultural practices while protecting the rights and interests of all stakeholders in the supply chain. The AALA is essential in ensuring that agricultural lawyers can effectively serve their clients and drive innovation in the industry.

What is one of your favorite AALA memories or experiences?
I attended my first AALA educational symposium in 2022, and I’ll never forget the feeling of walking into a room full of like-minded legal professionals. I was able to have engaging discussions and make meaningful connections with fellow attorneys and mentors who share a commitment to advancing sustainable practices in agriculture and having conversations with the strongest minds in agricultural law and agricultural policy.