Photo by Jeffrey S. Otto

Why do you love farming?

It started while spending time with my father on the farm. Honestly, I never really thought about doing anything else. I enjoy God’s creation, being my own boss and spending time with my family. My son, Michael, and I run the farm with the help of my other two children, six granddaughters and two great-grandchildren. My girls are some of the hardest workers and stay on the farm as long as they can to help before going on to their careers. We wake up at sunrise to milk, spend the rest of the day planting or harvesting, depending on the season, doing maintenance and any other tasks that need to be done. After a full day, it’s back to the barn to milk in the evening. I get to spend all of that time with my son and whoever else in the family is with us that day. Working outside every day allows me to take in and appreciate everything the Lord has given us. We are so blessed to live where we do and do what we do because of God’s blessings, and I hope to keep it in the family for generations to come.

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Are you Farm Bureau Proud?

Yes! The way Farm Bureau treats the public and their members is what makes them Farm Bureau. Every person who works for them is friendly, kind and knowledgeable. There has never been a time I have called with a question that they have not answered or sent me to someone who could. No other organization can compare to how members and farmers get along with Farm Bureau.
What does being Washington County Farm Bureau president mean to you?

Meeting and visiting with people around the county is what has really made being county president great. I get to spend time with the many farmers and members that make up our federation. I encourage others, especially young people, to get involved, meet new people, gain ideas and give new perspectives to their county Farm Bureau to further our traditions. My father was one of the first members of Farm Bureau back in 1921, so carrying on his legacy of being a member and leader is how we grow and continue for generations to come.

What is it like watching your family grow up on the farm?

I take much pride in knowing I have influenced my children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren by having them grow up on the farm. Their time has taught them skills they use every day: how to be leaders, dedication, responsibility and so much more. Working on the farm even had an impact on what some of them chose for their careers. One of our granddaughters is a veterinarian, one is a veterinarian assistant, one is a teacher and another is working on her master’s degree in agricultural education. Agriculture has played a huge part in not just their careers, but it influences them in everything they do.