Christensen of Scranton Named Good Farm Neighbor

05-27-2009 in Good Farm Neighbor

(Scranton, IA – May 26, 2009)  Tuesday morning brought cloudy skies and scattered showers, but the weather didn’t damper the spirits of nearly 100 friends, farmers and family members from celebrating agriculture and the recognition of Randy Christensen as the May recipient of the Gary Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award.

His parents, Glen and Cheryl beamed with pride as Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey presented the award and commented on Randy’s exceptional dedication to responsible farming.

“It takes good farm neighbors to get the job done right and Randy is a prime example,” he said.  “Agricultural neighborhoods are special because these rural areas are family and community focused.  Although some people think it is gone; it’s very much alive and well in Iowa.  The sense of pride in family and community is evident with today’s event.”

In nominating Randy for the award, Sarah Dorman of West Central Cooperative said, “Randy’s commitment to his livestock and his environment are evident the moment you drive out to his farm. This clean and well managed farm is the ideal Iowa swine farm.”

A fourth-generation hog farmer, Randy started raising 4-H hogs when he was 10.  Today, he oversees a wean-to-finish hog farm near Scranton.  In addition to helping his father, Glen, grow corn and soybeans, Randy is a Pioneer seed dealer for the area.

While thanking everyone for their presence, Randy pulled at heartstrings when he said, “I knew I wanted to farm ever since I was a young boy holding my baby pigs.  Thanks to all of you, I not only get to do what I love, but also get support from great community members.”

Farming is truly a family affair for the Christensens.  Randy’s younger brother Matt is active on the farm and promotes the significance of the livestock. “Not only do livestock supply an abundance of job opportunities but they present a great way for a young farmer to get involved in agriculture, settle down in a wonderful community and raise a family.

The Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award, presented by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Iowa Ag Radio Network in partnership with the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers (CSIF), is presented ten times annually to an Iowa farm family who raises livestock.  It’s given in honor of distinguished WHO Radio farm broadcaster Gary Wergin and recognizes families who take pride in being good neighbors and stewards of the land.

To nominate a deserving livestock farmer or farm family, contact Megan Ritter, Senior Field Coordinator, at mritter@supportfarmers.com or call at (515) 225-5481.

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