Sustainable agriculture, Water law, Distance running, Policy podcasts, Permaculture design
Matthew Schackow
Miranda
Summary
Dynamic environmental science professional with over 20 years of experience in regulated agricultural and manufacturing sectors, demonstrating a proven track record in leading vertically integrated operations within California's cannabis industry. Expertise includes regulatory compliance, permitting, environmental stewardship, and systems-level problem solving, ensuring adherence to best practices while promoting sustainability. Committed to pursuing legal training to effectively address policy gaps impacting sustainable agriculture, water resources, and ecological justice. A strategic thinker dedicated to driving positive change through innovative solutions and collaborative efforts.
Overview
30
30
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification
Work History
Cannabis Consultant, Self-Employed
Schackow Farms Consulting
01.2017 - Current
- Advised over 20 cannabis businesses while concurrently serving in executive leadership roles, supporting startup operators and peer cultivators through licensing, compliance, and strategy.
- Designed compliance strategies for water usage, chemical handling, and hazardous waste to align with CalEPA and DCC standards.
- Collaborated with legal, scientific, and community stakeholders to promote transparency and legal operations.
- Advised clients on navigating California’s Bureau of Cannabis Control (BCC) and Department of Cannabis Control (DCC) frameworks.
Founder & CEO
Schackow Agricultural Inc.
01.2017 - 01.2025
- Owned and operated a state-licensed, non-solvent (a specific manufacturing process omitting the use of solvents) cannabis manufacturing company.
- Produced live rosin concentrates and infused edibles for California’s legal cannabis market.
- Oversaw all business operations including compliance, staffing, product development, and market expansion.
- Maintained compliance with California’s Bureau of Cannabis Control and Department of Cannabis Control regulations.
Founder, CEO, & Director of Cultivation
Schackow Farms
01.2004 - 01.2025
- Built and led one of California’s earliest vertically integrated cannabis operations.
- Directed compliance across environmental and agricultural jurisdictions, including local water boards and CalEPA.
- Designed and implemented water management systems in line with state standards for water quality and hazardous waste.
- Led a team of 15–50 employees, creating SOPs and promoting sustainable cultivation.
- Participated in public comment sessions and policy forums to advocate for equitable licensing access.
Founder & CEO
Sundberg & Schackow Distribution Inc.
01.2017 - 01.2024
- Co-founded and operated a licensed cannabis distribution company serving retailers and producers throughout California.
- Managed statewide logistics, procurement, inventory, and secure product transport.
- Ensured compliance with cannabis distribution regulations including Metrc tracking and DCC transport protocols.
- Built and maintained relationships with farms, manufacturers, and retail clients.
Rafting & Hiking Guide (Seasonal)
Hudson River Rafting Company
01.2000 - 01.2002
- Guided whitewater rafting trips and backcountry hikes for groups on the Upper Hudson and Lower Moose rivers.
- Taught wilderness safety, Leave No Trace principles, and trip logistics.
- Reinforced leadership, judgment, and emergency preparedness in unpredictable outdoor conditions.
Laborer, Painter, and Customer Service Roles
Various Employers
01.1996 - 01.1999
- In Florida: worked in painting, food service, and athletic retail on breaks while attending high school.
- In California: performed general labor prior to pursuing full-time professional and academic goals.
- Developed early resilience, work ethic, and customer service skills across varied industries.
Education
Bachelor of Science - Environmental Science & Technology
California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt
Arcata, CA05.2025
Associate of Applied Science - Outdoor Recreation
Paul Smith’s College
Paul Smiths, NY05.2002
Skills
- Environmental & Scientific: Water testing protocols, environmental monitors, GIS mapping
- Regulatory & Legal: Metrc, DCC portals
- Media & Communication: Canva, CapCut, public speaking
- Team leadership & development
- Client relationships
- Project leadership
Certification
- Wilderness EMT Certification
- SOLO School of Wilderness Medicine — Conway, New Hampshire
- Completed ~170-hour training in emergency medical care for remote settings.
- Emphasized trauma management, airway stabilization, environmental emergencies, and prolonged patient care.
- Earned WEMT, CPR, and NREMT certifications.
Interests
Timeline
Cannabis Consultant, Self-Employed
Schackow Farms Consulting
01.2017 - Current
Founder & CEO
Schackow Agricultural Inc.
01.2017 - 01.2025
Founder & CEO
Sundberg & Schackow Distribution Inc.
01.2017 - 01.2024
Founder, CEO, & Director of Cultivation
Schackow Farms
01.2004 - 01.2025
Rafting & Hiking Guide (Seasonal)
Hudson River Rafting Company
01.2000 - 01.2002
Laborer, Painter, and Customer Service Roles
Various Employers
01.1996 - 01.1999
Associate of Applied Science - Outdoor Recreation
Paul Smith’s College
Bachelor of Science - Environmental Science & Technology
California State Polytechnic University, Humboldt