Commissioner Laura Brennan Bissell

Laura’s formative years were spent in the greater Washington D.C. area and a smattering of southern states. While not having had a very outdoorsy family life, as soon as she was old enough to jump on a bicycle and escape into the greater unknown, that’s what she did. While exploring creeks, critters, and hollers, she developed a deep love for the natural world and, from very early on, dreamed of a livelihood that allowed for the cultivation of closeness with flora and fauna. She firmly believes that we do not just live in our environment, but we are woven into its fabric and should live our lives in accordance with the pursuit of wellness for all living things and their precious time here on this Earth.

Brennan Bissell lives on her farm/vineyard in Underwood, Washington, surrounded by a menagerie of animals and children, and hope for the future of family-owned American farms. She is at the helm of both Inconnu and Aitia, wineries that focus on Regenerative Agriculture, and stewards her own land in accordance with this philosophy. She is a huge proponent of no-till, dry farming, the return of native grasses, and the integration of animals on land.

Her decision to join the Columbia River Gorge Commission was largely based on her desire for more representation for farmers and people who live and raise their families here.