Bob Lawrason: Visionary
Entrepreneur and Sustainability Pioneer
Robert "Bob" Lawrason stands as a testament to the power of reinvention and purposeful living. With a career spanning diverse industries and a commitment to environmental sustainability that has shaped his life's work, Lawrason has emerged as a leading voice in regenerative agriculture and climate action.
Military Foundation and Diverse
Professional Background
Lawrason's journey began with service in the United States Marine Corps, where he developed the disciplined mindset and leadership skills that would serve him throughout his varied career. His professional path has been remarkably diverse, reflecting a natural curiosity and adaptability that has taken him from high-performance racing mechanic to dairy farmer, from database programmer to construction worker and more.
This eclectic background has provided Lawrason with unique insights into multiple industries, giving him a comprehensive understanding of both technical systems and practical applications. His experience in landscaping, logging, management, sales, and nonprofit work has created a well-rounded perspective that he brings to his current environmental initiatives.
The Kenaf Revolution: Transforming
Agriculture for Climate Action
Thirteen years ago, a chance encounter with a Permaculture Designer opened Lawrason's eyes to the environmental crisis facing the Mississippi watershed. This pivotal moment sparked his passion for sustainable agriculture and led to the founding of Kenaf Partners USA, where he serves as Founder and CEO.
Kenaf, has become Lawrason's vehicle for addressing climate change through agriculture. Under his leadership, Kenaf Partners USA has positioned this remarkable plant as a rotational crop solution for corn, soy, and cotton farmers throughout the Mississippi watershed (which spans 37 US states and impacts global food systems), and other parts of the US.
The versatility of kenaf, with its tens of thousands of potential uses, aligns perfectly with Lawrason's vision of regenerative agriculture. His work demonstrates how kenaf can simultaneously reverse climate change, reduce pollution, restore soil and human health, and generate profit for farmers, processors and manufacturers – a true win-win solution for environmental and economic sustainability.
Entrepreneurial Spirit and Business
Acumen
Lawrason's entrepreneurial journey extends beyond Kenaf Partners USA. He has successfully founded two companies: Kenaf Partners USA and Legacy Design. Each venture reflects his commitment to sustainable practices and community development.
His business philosophy centers on creating a network of contracted partners, that form the infrastructure in an efficient and complete supply chain in the US. This innovative approach to business development recognizes the importance of profitable and regenerative farming and manufacturing.
Thought Leadership and Media Presence
As a recognized expert in sustainable agriculture, Lawrason has become a sought-after speaker and media personality. His appearance on the "Sustainability Now" podcast, where he discussed kenaf's role in climate action, showcased his deep knowledge and passionate advocacy for regenerative farming practices.
His media presence extends to various platforms where he shares insights on sustainable agriculture, climate solutions, and the practical applications of kenaf in addressing environmental challenges. Lawrason's ability to communicate complex agricultural concepts in accessible terms has made him an effective consultant for sustainable farming practices.
Permaculture Expertise and Education
Lawrason's commitment to sustainable agriculture is further demonstrated through his involvement in permaculture education. He has been instrumental in organizing permaculture design courses, training with renowned Permaculture Designers and instructors Toby Hemenway, Penny Livingston, Jude Hobbs, Eric Toensmeier and Koreen Brennan. His learning from successful farmers, Gabe Brown, Mark Shepard and Joel Saltin and soil expert Nicole Masters has provided him with a unique insight to work with farmers and manufacturers.
His educational initiatives focus on practical applications of permaculture principles, community building, and regenerative living practices. Through these programs, Lawrason continues to help nurture a new generation of environmental stewards and sustainable agriculture practitioners.
Current Life and Continuing Mission
Now residing in Clearwater, Florida Lawrason practices what he preaches by growing his own food and maintaining a self-sufficient lifestyle that embodies his environmental values.
Despite his retirement, Lawrason remains deeply engaged in promoting kenaf cultivation and sustainable agriculture practices. His ongoing efforts to connect growers with kenaf opportunities, in the US, demonstrates his unwavering commitment to expanding regenerative kenaf farming networks.
A Legacy of Innovation and
Environmental Stewardship
Bob Lawrason's remarkable journey from Boy Scout to environmental leadership exemplifies the power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship. His work with kenaf represents more than just agricultural innovation – it embodies a comprehensive approach to addressing current environmental challenges while supporting farmer livelihoods, transitioning manufacturers and community development.
Through Kenaf Partners USA, Lawrason continues to champion solutions that prove environmental responsibility and economic viability can go hand in hand. His vision of a Mississippi watershed transformed by regenerative agriculture practices stands as a beacon of hope for profitable farming and environmental stewardship.
As global awareness of climate change and regenerative agriculture grows, Bob Lawrason's pioneering work with kenaf and his commitment to regenerative practices position him as a vital voice in the movement toward a more sustainable future. His multifaceted background, entrepreneurial spirit, and environmental expertise make him a valuable resource for anyone seeking practical solutions to today's environmental challenges.