The Tennessee Department of Agriculture (TDA) has officially named Crossville native Matthew McClanahan as its new general counsel, effective August 3, 2026.

In his new role, McClanahan will oversee the department’s legal matters, provide strategic legal counsel to agency leadership, and ensure TDA continues its core mission to serve, support, and promote Tennessee’s agriculture and forestry sectors. He brings a robust background in agricultural law, regulatory compliance, administrative law, and litigation management to the post.

Agriculture Commissioner Andy Holt praised the appointment, highlighting McClanahan’s deep roots in the state’s agricultural community.

“Matthew’s legal experience and understanding of Tennessee agriculture make him an outstanding addition to our leadership team,” said Commissioner Holt. “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.”

Prior to joining the department, McClanahan served as a managing partner at his law firm in Crossville, where his practice focused on government relations, civil litigation, business, and agricultural and environmental law. He also served as the executive director of the Tennessee Association of Conservation Districts, partnering with conservation leaders and agricultural stakeholders statewide to protect natural resources.

For McClanahan, a third-generation Tennessean raised on his family’s farm in Cumberland County, the role presents a vital opportunity to serve the state’s bedrock industry.

“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,” McClanahan said.

McClanahan earned his Juris Doctor from the University of Tennessee College of Law after graduating magna cum laude from Tennessee Tech University with a bachelor’s degree in Agriculture and a minor in History. Deeply involved in his community, he currently serves as the Public Policy Chair for the Cumberland County Chamber. He resides in Cumberland County with his wife, Lauren, and their son, Adam Claude.