Ag Behavioral Health Work Group

About the Work Group

The Agricultural Behavioral Health Work Group is tasked with supporting CDA and the Behavioral Health Administration in identifying gaps and compiling best practices for providing behavioral health care to agricultural communities. The work group was formed through SB24-055 and will include representatives of various interest groups. 

The work group will meet monthly and will be responsible for shaping guidance around providing behavioral health care to farmers, ranchers, other agricultural industry workers and their families. This includes compiling best practices, identifying gaps in services and engaging with other stakeholders. The work group will report their findings to CDA and BHA and recommend legislative or policy changes.

Work Group members

Statewide Agricultural Organizations that have programs focuses on behavioral health issues

• Rocky Mountain Farmers Union: Clinton Wilson
• Colorado Farm Bureau: Tim Miller

Statewide organizations that address mental or behavioral health issues:

• CSU Extension: Chad Reznicek
• CSU Extension: Julie Elliott

Veterans Service Organizations

• VFW Post 44: Michael Lozano

Rural Behavioral Health Providers and

• Chetney Nelsen: Superior, CO
• Kate Martinez: Alamosa, CO
• Joseph Carrica III, Rocky Ford, CO
• Michael Lozano: Steamboat Springs, CO (also Veteran Org)
• Amy Cooper Everett: Grand Junction, CO

Individuals who have lived experience with mental health issues, behavioral health issues, or substance use disorders and recovery

• Tom Talley: Durango, CO
• Jessica Duke: Yuma, CO
• Jacob Walter: Fowler, CO
• Isabella Proctor: Rocky Ford, CO (Farm Workers)
   

State entities:

• Department of Agriculture: Robert Sakata
• Behavioral Health Administration: Meghan Shelton
• Department of Public Health and Environment: Katherine Harvey