Latest News
Rebuilding Windbreaks, Strengthening Farms
For more than 600 Iowa farmers, strategic tree plantings have done far more than improve curb appeal—they’ve helped protect livestock farms, reduce odors, manage snow, and strengthen relationships with neighbors. Through the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers’ Green Farmstead Partner Program, more than 80,000 trees have been planted across the state since 2009, giving livestock farmers access to free on-site consultations and customized planting plans developed by professional nursery and landscaping experts. Made possible through a partnership with Trees Forever and the Iowa Nursery & Landscape Association, the program is helping farmers build more resilient, functional and welcoming farmsteads.
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Longtime Southeast Iowa Agricultural Leaders Recognized for Stewardship on the Farm and Service Beyond It
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig will present the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award to Stan and Martha Nelson of Des Moines County at their family farm near Danville on Thursday, July 9. The ceremony will take place during a lunchtime event held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.
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Hanlon Joins the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers
Olivia Hanlon has been named Communications Specialist for the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers (CSIF). In her new role, Hanlon will communicate the Coalition’s mission and services by sharing the success stories of Iowa farm families who have grown their livestock farms successfully and responsibly using on-farm best management practices. She will also support the Coalition’s outreach efforts by developing content that highlights CSIF’s commitment to helping farm families navigate the opportunities and challenges of livestock production.
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Iowa FFA Students See Bright Future for Agriculture Despite Industry Challenges
A new survey from the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers (CSIF) found Iowa FFA students remain optimistic about agriculture’s future, with 90% reporting a positive or very positive outlook for the industry in Iowa. Sophomore, Layne Vaske, in the Cedar Rapids Prairie FFA Chapter explained that she is “optimistic about the future of agriculture in Iowa because of what [she has] seen in [her] classes and clubs.” Additionally, she believes that “as much as there is a gap currently in ages, we are seeing a new wave of young people & are most likely to see that continue the next few years.”
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T-Boy Dairy of Decatur County to Receive Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award
Iowa Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Grant Menke presented the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award on behalf of Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig to T-Boy Dairy of Decatur County. The award recognizes Iowa livestock farmers who demonstrate outstanding environmental stewardship, animal care, and community leadership. The award presentation was held during an event held at T-Boy Dairy near Weldon on Wednesday, June 10. The event was held in conjunction with June Dairy Month.
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Multi-generational farm family recognized for conservation, animal care and community leadership
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig will present the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award to Steve and Amy Swenka of Double G Angus Farms near Tiffin on Friday, June 5. The award presentation ceremony will be held from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m. at their farm. The award recognizes Iowa livestock farmers who demonstrate outstanding animal care, environmental stewardship and community leadership.
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Inwood family recognized for conservation leadership, animal care and community service
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today presented the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award to Nathan and Jacklyn Nieuwendorp of Lyon County during a ceremony held at the 38th annual World Pork Expo at the Iowa State Fairgrounds. The prestigious statewide award recognizes Iowa livestock farmers who take pride in caring for their livestock and the environment while serving as good neighbors and community leaders.
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Through the Gate // May 2026
Stay updated with the Coalition to Support Iowa's Farmers. Discover events and more.
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COALITION TO SUPPORT IOWA’S FARMERS NAMES ELLE RUFFNER 2026 COMMUNICATIONS INTERN
COALITION WELCOMES RUFFNER AS THE 2026 COMMUNICATIONS INTERN
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KUEKER NAMED FIELD SPECIALIST FOR COALITION TO SUPPORT IOWA’S FARMERS
Megan Kueker has been named Communications Specialist for the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers (CSIF).
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