At Agoro Carbon Alliance, our people are at the heart of what we do. They’re out in the field and pastures most days, supporting farmers and ranchers as they explore and adopt regenerative agriculture practices. Today, we’d like you to meet one of them: Clay Craighton, an Iowa-based agronomist dedicated to helping producers transition to conservation-focused farming.
From Environmental Curiosity to Agronomy Expertise
Clay’s journey began at Iowa State University, where he combined his love for environmental science and agronomics to earn a degree in Agronomy with a minor in Agricultural Business. His studies sparked a passion for both crop production and sustainability, a balance that continues to guide his work today.
Hands-On Agriculture Experience
After college, Clay immersed himself in multiple areas of agriculture. He started in the seed industry, focusing on research and development. From there, he transitioned to working as an agronomist for a swine company, where he specialized in nutrient management planning and manure application, all while ensuring compliance with environmental regulations.
These diverse experiences gave him a well-rounded perspective on the challenges and opportunities farmers face. Today, he’s applying this expertise to help operations adopt
regenerative practices that improve soil health, reduce environmental impact, and support long-term productivity.
Beyond the Field
Clay calls Clear Lake, Iowa home. When he’s not working with farmers, you might find him cheering on the Minnesota Vikings or the Iowa State Men’s Basketball team. His childhood dream was to be a wide receiver for the Vikings – a role he’s traded in for another kind of teamwork: partnering with producers to strengthen the future of agriculture.
At home, Clay enjoys time with his his wife, two young children and golden retriever, Phoebe, who’s always up for an outdoor adventure.
Why Clay Loves His Work
For Clay, agronomy is more than a career, it’s a chance to make an impact. By supporting growers in their transition to conservation agriculture, he’s helping to ensure that farming remains both profitable and sustainable for many generations to come.
