Gregory Baltz

Greg Baltz, an accomplished farmer and agricultural leader, operates Running Lake Farms in Arkansas, where he has been growing runner peanuts alongside rice, corn, and soybeans for the past 14 years. With a deep commitment to innovation and sustainability, Baltz has played a key role in advancing peanut farming in Arkansas, a state where the industry continues to thrive.

“It’s an exciting time to be growing peanuts in Arkansas,” Baltz shared. “With challenging opportunities for the industry ahead, I’m honored to represent our growers in these endeavors. I look forward to serving on the National Peanut Board again and collaborating with the members and staff, some of the most talented and knowledgeable people in agriculture. I also look forward to engaging university research specialists in developing solutions to today’s most challenging peanut issues. And I am keenly interested in advancing the science behind reducing peanut allergies.”

Baltz’s agricultural journey is rooted in his academic foundation; he earned a degree in agricultural engineering from the University of Arkansas. His expertise and leadership extend to multiple roles within the industry, including serving on the University of Arkansas College of Engineering Dean’s Advisory Council and the Division of Agriculture Rice Processing Program. Baltz has also been a county president and active member of the Farm Bureau, as well as past president of the University of Arkansas Academy of Biological and Agricultural Engineers. His service includes time as an executive officer and member of the Board of Directors for the Knights of Columbus and membership on the Black River Technical College Ag Advisory Committee.

Baltz and his wife, Mary Nell, have been married for 47 years and are proud parents to three children who are excelling in their respective fields: Lewis, a geologist; Clinton, a mechanical engineer; and Angela, a biomedical engineer. In their free time, Greg and Mary Nell enjoy traveling and exploring new destinations.

As a National Peanut Board member, Baltz is dedicated to representing all growers while championing advancements in research and solutions to critical industry challenges, including efforts to solve peanut allergies. His leadership reflects a commitment to ensuring a bright future for peanut farming in Arkansas and across the nation.