Tennessee Tech graduate and Cumberland County native Matthew McClanahan has been named the General Counsel for the Tennessee Department of Agriculture.
McClanahan will provide legal counsel to the department and support agency leadership while overseeing legal matters. Commissioner Andy Holt said the role involves helping the TDA fulfill its mission of serving and promoting agriculture and forestry across the state.
McClanahan previously worked as a managing partner at a law firm in Crossville focusing on government relations, civil litigation, and environmental matters. Officials said he also served as the executive director of the Tennessee Association of Conservation Districts where he worked with agricultural stakeholders to enhance natural resources.
“It is a privilege to join the Tennessee Department of Agriculture and serve the people of our state,” McClanahan said. “Agriculture is the backbone of Tennessee’s economy and heritage, and I am committed to providing sound legal guidance that supports TDA’s important work on behalf of our farmers, rural communities, and all Tennesseans.”
Officials said McClanahan brings extensive experience in agricultural law, regulatory compliance, and administrative law to the position. Officials said he will also manage litigation for the department.
“Matthew’s legal experience and understanding of Tennessee agriculture make him an outstanding addition to our leadership team,” Commissioner Andy Holt said. “His knowledge of agricultural law and commitment to public service will help strengthen the department as we continue working to protect our state’s agricultural resources and support farmers and agribusinesses.”
McClanahan earned a Juris Doctor from the University of Tennessee College of Law and a bachelor’s degree in Agriculture from Tennessee Tech. He is a third-generation Tennessean who was raised on a family farm in Cumberland County.
McClanahan currently serves as the Public Policy Chair for the Cumberland County Chamber and is active in the local community.
