This inspiring FarmHer just finished her 48th crop year in North Iowa. Married in 1976, Emily Kuntz (pronounced coo-n-tz) hasn’t gone a year without running the grain cart. Her husband, Rodney, spends each day by her side – just a few rows over in the combine.

From the time she was a child, Emily (who goes by Emi), has spent as much time as possible outside. She grew up with six brothers and six sisters on an Iowa farm where she fell in love with production agriculture. With that large of a family, Emi had to help cook and clean the kitchen, but she jumped at any chance she could get to go outside and help her dad.

Helping with corn harvest has always been one of Emi’s favorite activities. She gets the same joy from farming with her husband, their son and nephew today as she found in the camaraderie she enjoyed while growing up farming with her brothers and sisters.

Emi is living her dream as a farmher. She’s  also a respected mother, adored wife and beloved grandmother. Emi and Rod have two daughters, one son and seven grandchildren. She explains how her grandchildren’s eyes light up every time they ride in the tractor or combine and how much she loves their company.

It’s clear that Emi and Rodney have passed their work ethic to their children. Their son, Ramon, agrees his mother’s positive influence played a large role in his decision to farm.

“I never went to daycare as a child because I was just mom’s right-hand little man,” Ramon says. “I hope to someday give my kids the same experience that she gave me.”

Farming has been a family tradition on both sides of Ramon’s family. Emi’s #RootsinBoots date back to 1850 when her grandparents began farming here after immigrating, and Rodney’s family has been farming in North Iowa for 139 years.

After being in the industry for more than 40 years, Emi has a wealth of experience but her best advice can be boiled down to the following statement: “Make sure your heart is in whatever you do. It takes long hours, a lot of patience and tremendous amounts of hard work, but the ability to do what you love with the ones you love is irreplaceable.”

Find more inspiring #RootsinBoots stories below:

• Women in Ag: Tracing Amy Rohe’s #RootsinBoots
• Women in Ag: Tracing Kilah Hemesath’s #RootsinBoots
• Women in Ag: Tracing Jenna Braun’s #RootsinBoots
• Women in Ag: Tracing Ali Luety’s #RootsinBoots
• Women in Ag: Tracing Jessica Faust’s #RootsinBoots
• Women in Ag: Tracing Josie Burgett’s #RootsinBoots
• Women in Ag: Tracing Laura Daniel’s #RootsinBoots
• Women in Ag: Tracing Mandy Danner’s #RootsinBoots
• Women in Ag: Tracing Laura Cunningham’s #RootsinBoots

___

Without strong women to help shape and manage our company, Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds would be a very different company than it is today. We understand the key roles women play in everything from purchasing seed to marketing grain, from public relations and event planning to sales and customer service. That’s why we’re celebrating women who are doing what they love. From now through December, we’re showcasing women in agriculture by telling their #RootsinBoots stories. Follow along and be inspired by FarmHers across Iowa!

We’re looking for women, ages 18 to 108, who have a passion for agriculture and are willing to share their farm stories. Simply post photos of yourself on Instagram or Facebook using the hashtags #RootsinBoots #LathamSeeds and #FarmHer. Let your personality and work ethic show. We want to see what a “day in the life” of you is like!

Because each woman in agriculture is unique, everyone who submits a photo of herself either working in the field or working with livestock will be entered to win a $500 shopping spree at Western Edge LTD. There’s no limit to the number of entries, so increase your chances by posting across platforms via Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Go to https://www.lathamseeds.com/rootsinboots/ or click here for more information.

“Well Tate, are you going to help us run the grain cart?” The 11-year-old boy’s eyes lit up when he realized he was just given the responsibility of running the grain cart. He had heard stories about his grandpa’s farm and wished he could become a farmer someday.

With his feet hardly able to reach the clutch, Tate quickly realized how much he loved farming and wanted to follow his grandpa’s footsteps. Because he grew up outside of town and his family was not involved in agriculture while he growing up, got involved in farming by helping area farmers. He began working for a family friend on his farm when he was 11, and that experience led Tate to receive his Agricultural Business degree from Iowa Lakes Community College. He didn’t think twice about returning to the family farm in Odebolt, Iowa.

Growth and diversity are two qualities Tate keeps in mind when developing his operation. Tate’s first crop year was 2009, and his operation has continued to grow every year. He added feeder cattle in 2012 and plans to expand both the livestock and row crop operations in the future.

“Continual improvement” is Tate’s mantra. He has been updating his grandparent’s farmstead, where he hopes to live someday. He has built three grain bins, put new siding on the barn and built a lot for his feeder cattle. This spring he hopes to finish the cattle building.

“Grandpa loved raising feeder cattle,” said Tate. “I know the improvements and continuation of feeder cattle in my farm means a lot to my family, especially my grandma, who can see the improvements through her kitchen window.”

Although they’re not involved directly in agriculture, Tate’s parents have played an important role in supporting his dream. Tate’s dad, Dave, is a retired banker, so he reaffirmed Tate’s purchasing decisions. Tate has watched his mom, Twyla, pursue her passion as an elementary school teacher, giving him the drive to pursue his own his interests.

“My parents have always provided me with a voice of reason and have helped me see the big picture,” Tate said.

Along with offering advice for the growing farmer’s operation, Dave also taught Tate how to pheasant hunt. Tate enjoys hunting pheasant and deer hunting on his off time. He just enjoys the outdoors.

At the end of a long day, Tate says there isn’t anything better than sitting down to a meat and potatoes supper. Today we’re sharing his homemade barbeque sauce.

Participate in our Country’s Future by Voting

On this Election Day, I’ve been reading nasty remarks about politicians. These comments group all politicians together, which made me think about discrimination. With some of our candidates, I know that’s easy to do!

Then I read a Facebook post from one of my friends, who took exception. She was an elected official for eight years at the local level. Carol made some very good points about why she ran for office. She ran because she wanted to make a positive difference for her neighbors. On the local level, a person doesn’t seek public office for money or fame.

I’m friends with many people who either are or were elected officials. They’re nice, hardworking, giving people, who truly want to make a difference. Think about this for a moment… local officials can’t run into the grocery store, enjoy a meal out or watch their grandkids play spots without someone picking a bone with them. It makes me wonder why anyone would run for office!

Truthfully, there isn’t a perfect candidate. Some are saying that we must settle for the lessor of two evils in this presidential election, but I don’t see it that way. We should elect the person who most closely fits with our personal agendas. Yes, even I have an agenda!

There are many issues – mostly social issues – that I will not bend on. If I don’t vote, or if I vote for someone with no chance of winning, what is the result? If I vote for the person whose opinions are closer to mine, it still doesn’t guarantee that my agenda will get any further down the road but maybe, just maybe, it will.

Last week I joined a discussion underway on a friend’s Facebook page about the oil pipeline coming out of the Dakotas. One friend asked how this pipeline could be built when it’s causing so much damage to Indian grounds and the environment. I responded that not all information being pushed by mainstream media was accurate and suggested the facts be checked.

In no uncertain terms, other people jumped into the conversation. They either assumed or incorrectly thought I was against the protest. I would’ve liked to make the point that every American citizens has the right to freely protest. I even think it’s a duty! But I take exception to the way some folks are allowed to protest and destroy property, while others have been killed by simply driving to a town hall meeting!

The people who started joining in the “discussion” on Facebook weren’t interested in checking the facts. They were emotionally charged, and I felt like they weren’t interested in listening to my points. The mainstream media is NOT always correct! Because this post was made on the page of a friend who is very dear to me, and she was feeling uncomfortable by the comments being made, I walked away from the discussion.

The point I was trying to make then – and again today – is that elected officials should not have all the power. As citizens we need to keep that for ourselves! America won’t remain “We the People” without representation. It’s our duty to vote.

By not participating in this election, you make a decision – just not the one you should! No matter who gets elected, we can still carry on and make a difference. Participate in the future of this country. Your kid’s and your grandkid’s future depends on you!

If someone were to ask me which experiences in life have shaped me the most into the person I am today, I would without hesitation include “the FFA” near the top of the list. It’s influence on my life started long before high school. In fact, it’s part of a legacy in agriculture started over 65 years ago.

My grandfather Leslie Ausen had a strong desire to go back to the family farm and work in agriculture after returning from service in World War II. The farm economy at the time was risky business for a newlywed, so Grandpa decided that if he couldn’t farm, he would teach. He completed his Bachelor’s of Science degree in Agriculture Education at Iowa State University as part of the graduating class of 1949. He then moved to Rockford, Iowa, to serve as the new Vocational Agriculture instructor and chartered the Rockford FFA Chapter that same year.

The program was new to Rockford Senior High, but it didn’t take long for the chapter to grow and find success. Grandpa was proud of his students and enjoyed seeing them set and achieve goals in FFA and in their careers. Another favorite job duty was community education. He spent many evenings instructing ag continuing education courses for adults, helping with environmental projects around town and doing what he could to teach all in his community about agriculture. I asked him once what he thought his biggest career accomplishment was and he said helping two of his students (Nick Schmitt and Steve Weiner) achieve their Iowa Farmer Degrees. Now some 35 years later many of those same students are working farms alongside their children, or even passing their farming operations to the next generation. Grandpa remained with the program for 36 years retiring in 1985, but this is only where the legacy begins.

My father, Daryl, served as president of the Rockford FFA chapter in 1974. He later started farming and married the ag teacher’s daughter (insert Mom!). My brother, Eric, was president of the Rockford FFA in 2002. And, you guessed it! Building on tradition, I served as chapter president in 2006.

When I think about all I learned in the FFA, I think about a quote I read on The Pinkie Post: “FFA members win more in life because they learn how hard it is to lose and how to prepare to win.” FFA taught me how to prepare for success. Doing to Learn and Learning to Do (agriculture) so that someday I might be Earning to Live and Living to Serve (agriculture!)

I always admired my Grandpa’s dedication to teaching ag. While my calling wasn’t to teach high school agriculture, I did follow in his footsteps attending Iowa State University College of Agriculture and Life Sciences to pursue a degree in Ag Business. In 2008, I took a marketing position with family-owned Latham Seeds, helping teach farmers about the newest seed technologies in the industry.

I’m also proud to have married into a farm family and own a cattle operation together with my husband, Aaron. We market our beef direct to consumers. Some of my favorite days include opportunities to give tours of our farm and put someone in a tractor for their very first time. I enjoy volunteering with our county and state Farm Bureau, advocating for young farmers. This past spring I started a new project with my local elementary school called “Farmer Penpal.” Each week I Facetimed with a class to show “day in the life” on the farm- LIVE! Together we watched calves take their first steps, watched a semi load of soybeans get hauled into AGP and discussed how the oil may someday make their crayons. Such a rewarding project!

If I were to give advice to someone preparing for or currently working in a career in agriculture, I would say “find ways to share your story!” It’s great if you can use social media (follow me on Instagram! @LifeonSkyView). But it’s even better if you can join and be active in a commodity organization or with students in a classroom. Only 15% of America is lucky enough to help produce, process and sell our nation’s food, fuel and fiber. Help the other 85% learn about it, too!

My #RootsinBoots started early on the farm raising cattle together with my dad. It grew stronger through 4-H, FFA, college studies and back to a family farm. My #RootsinBoots represents a legacy. It’s a passion for sharing agriculture with farmers, neighbors and my community. It’s a life I wouldn’t trade for the world. And it’s a legacy I hope to pass on for many generations to come.

This past week on Facebook, I posted a graphic of my quote in Michele Payne’s book, “No More Food Fights” in which I emphasize the importance of listening when engaging in a conversation. Today I’d like to expand on that…

Monday on my Musings of a Pig Farmer Facebook page I shared an article about the Dakota pipeline and related protests. Listening, in this case, to protestors may not be enough as Scott Gates points out in a Facebook article posted Oct. 24, 2016. He explains how he researched the protests and found that many of the most vocal protestors never engaged during the public comment period.

In this era of mass communication, how do you determine what the facts are? Normally, you just need to “follow the money to find the motive.”

I’m going to use the term “protest” lightly because it’s more of a takeover of private property. Most “protestors” are bused in from outside the area and many are paid to participate. Outside groups with an agenda are using this situation to build public opinion. I know because I’ve personally experienced paid protestors who have been brought in to influence public opinion around the building of hog barns. I attended hearings where neighbors broke done in tears as they testified how terrible the new barns would be to them, yet they didn’t have any personal experience upon which to base their information. They got worked into a frenzy by activists, who worked them into a frenzy by telling them how they would suffer. After the barns were built, these same neighbors who gave the emotional testimony, asked me when pigs would go in the barns. They didn’t realize pigs had been in the barn for months!

This same scenario plays out in so many places. The fear of the unknown plays a large role in public opinion, and the void of compelling facts seems to be easily filled with scare tactics. This is the case with large farms, GMOs, water quality… the list goes on and on.

Fear also is driving many political and social discussions. I’ve had some very good discussions lately about some of these issues, and “discuss” is what we should do! Like everyone, there are some issues on which I simply will not comprise my personal beliefs. As with most things in life, however, compromise and negotiation go a long way toward finding a solution.

Simply withholding your vote because you don’t think any of the candidates running for office really isn’t a solution. In one week, we will elect many people to many offices: local, state and federal. All of these offices are very important, so I will exercise my power to vote. I have listened. I have read and researched the candidates. I have analyzed their actions and positions. Soon I will make the best choices I can to make this a better country. I encourage you to do the same. Make your vote count!

We’re half way through our #RootsinBoots contest series and hope you’ve enjoyed reading stories from FarmHers across Latham Country! Did you know, Latham Seeds is sponsoring a contest to help support the FarmHer mission to raise awareness of Women in Agriculture? Entering is so simple!

1. Post a photo of your role in agriculture, whether it’s driving tractor during harvest, caring for cattle on pasture, attending an Animal Science lecture on campus or providing the inputs our farmers need to raise food, fuel and fiber for the world. It’s all a part of a FarmHers #RootsinBoots!

2. Post your photo to social media- Facebook, Twitter or Instagram and use the hashtags: #FarmHer, RootsinBoots and #LathamSeeds.

The contest runs through November 21, 2016 when we’ll select one winner to receive a $500 shopping spree to the Western Edge, LTD.

Winners must be 18 or older to enter. All photos may be subject to use in a future Latham Seeds campaign. All entrants must be comfortable representing a family-owned and independent seed brand.

Guest blog post by Annette Sweeney, co-chair of America’s Renewable Future campaign

On a snowy morning in December 1983, my girlfriends and I were having coffee and visiting about the harvest. We were amazed with the corn on the ground outside the elevators. As farmers, we came to the chilling realization that we had no-where to go with our corn. We brought up the gasohol fuel, which was introduced during the 1970’s oil crisis, and wondered what ever happened to it? We all thought using our corn as fuel was a no-brainer! It was renewable, lessened the amount of oil we had to get from other countries, and helped cut down on bad emissions from our cars. Why not?

In 2005, the Renewable Fuel Standard was put into place and perfected in 2007. YEAH! Here in the heartland, farmers of all sizes were excited to grow corn, not only for food, but also as a fuel source for our country. We knew the amount of corn produced on an acre was enough to cover everything America was asking of us, and we stepped up to the plate.

From 1980 until now, it’s truly amazing how efficient farmers have become in using technology to be better stewards of the land. We should not be afraid of technology to improve… We all use a mobile phone, don’t we? Over the past 20 years, farmers have worked to create market demand for this homegrown commodity and increased demand for clean air.

Renewable fuels have played a major role in creating that demand for corn. Farmers are able to grow more on every acre due to precision agriculture, better seed technology and improved farming practices. We have reduced land use by 30% and energy by 43% per bushel of corn produced. Soil erosion is 67% less and greenhouse gas emissions 36% less! More great information is found at https://ethanoleffect.com/myth-fact/. The by-products of ethanol production are great extras; Feed for our livestock and distillers oil are the top two. We don’t waste anything!

Recently a cowboy friend of mine and I were gathering cows on horse back. As we crossed the creek, he looked down at the clarity of the water and then looked up at me and said, “Wow! It’s amazing how much cleaner the creeks and streams are. This is the best I have ever seen it.” My friend is 91 and he saw the improvements made by technology to raise our crop while conserving top soil.

Let’s not give into fear mongering! Let us be proud and go forward with the great innovations that are being forged in agriculture. We farmers are the best stewards of the land and are constantly looking for better ways to leave it to the next generation.

From the time she took her first combine ride in a car seat, Mandy Danner of Curlew, Iowa, has had her roots planted in agriculture.

Mandy is a woman with drive, dedication and the desire to excel in all areas of her life. This former 4-H and FFA member is on brink of an industry change. She’s challenging the status quo and taking a stance in her role of a farmher, wife and soon-to-be mom.

Family values and common interests are what initially brought Mandy and her husband, Cole, together when they were students at Iowa State University and are the building blocks for their family. Mandy has taken her passion for agriculture and turned it into an irreplaceable role on the farm.

“Harvest is a busy time of year here,” says Mandy. “Not only do I feed the entire harvest crew a hot meal each and every day, but I’m also part of the crew myself.”

Mandy runs the grain cart, feeds livestock and checks pastures to alleviate some of the long days for her family. She values the opportunity to learn more each day and enjoys seeing yield results after a carefully planned and executed growing season. Mandy and Cole feel blessed to harvest alongside Mandy’s parents, brothers and her grandfather. Teamwork is key among all family. Teamwork is one of the values they want to instill in their children, and the couple is eagerly anticipating the arrive of their first child this February.

“Cole and I help each other accomplish every day chores and we do it as a team. He helps me inside with dishes and laundry, then I help him deliver baby calves, vaccinate cows and build fence.”

No two days are alike for the Danner’s as they stay busy with their crop production and cattle operation, with an emphasis on club calf production where they host Danner Show Stock Club Calf Sale every year in September.

“Cole and I find it priceless to farm with the ones you love,” says Mandy. We both believe in the future of agriculture and look forward to carrying on our farming traditions.”

Mandy shares this advice for other women who are interested in going into the agricultural industry.

“Do what you love and do it proudly! Women are just as capable of men in the agricultural industry so don’t let the status quo dull your fire.”

Find more inspiring #RootsinBoots stories below:

• Women in Ag: Tracing Amy Rohe’s #RootsinBoots
• Women in Ag: Tracing Kilah Hemesath’s #RootsinBoots
• Women in Ag: Tracing Jenna Braun’s #RootsinBoots
• Women in Ag: Tracing Ali Luety’s #RootsinBoots
• Women in Ag: Tracing Jessica Faust’s #RootsinBoots
• Women in Ag: Tracing Josie Burgett’s #RootsinBoots

___

Without strong women to help shape and manage our company, Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds would be a very different company than it is today. We understand the key roles women play in everything from purchasing seed to marketing grain, from public relations and event planning to sales and customer service. That’s why we’re celebrating women who are doing what they love. From now through November, we’re showcasing women in agriculture by telling their #RootsinBoots stories. Follow along and be inspired by FarmHers across Iowa!

We’re looking for women, ages 18 to 108, who have a passion for agriculture and are willing to share their farm stories. Simply post photos of yourself on Instagram or Facebook using the hashtags #RootsinBoots #LathamSeeds and #FarmHer. Let your personality and work ethic show. We want to see what a “day in the life” of you is like!

Because each woman in agriculture is unique, everyone who submits a photo of herself either working in the field or working with livestock will be entered to win a $500 shopping spree at Western Edge LTD. There’s no limit to the number of entries, so increase your chances by posting across platforms via Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Go to https://www.lathamseeds.com/rootsinboots/ or click here for more information.

There’s nothing more inspiring than watching someone live her dream and love every minute. Laura Daniels, a Wisconsin dairy FarmHer, spoke at the 2nd Annual GROW by FarmHer conference in Ankeny, Iowa. She shared her #RootsinBoots story through a presentation entitled, “10 Life Hacks for the ‘Dirty Work’ of Being a Growing FarmHer.”

It didn’t take long for Laura to discover her passion. When she was 11 years old, she showed her first dairy heifer calf at the county fair. She loved it, and Laura knew then that she loved farming. Below are lessons she learned along the way:

1.      Don’t play dead. After sharing a story about an unfortunate opposum, Laura reminded us we are here for a reason. Take advantage of ALL the opportunities; don’t play dead. This is your chance to explore ideas, be vibrant and become involved in the ways that mean the most to you.

2.      Your passion is your power. Every person has a different set of work ethics, morals, values and leadership experiences. Take your passion and find a way to become influential for those looking for guidance. Your passion is your power; be as powerful as you can.

3.      Remember who packed your parachute. As life has it, none of got where we are on our own. Who helped you along the way, who was your role model? This may be a parent, teacher or advisor who helped you put your best interest first. Thank these people for helping you achieve what you have so far because they are the ones who packed your parachute.

4.      Share your magic shoes. Each one of us has special attributes to make us who we are. Use that and help others in a way that you would want to be helped. Never underestimate the value of teamwork and helping others because you can always accomplish more with help.

5.      Know your true grit. What is most important to you? Figure out the qualities you want out from friends or employees and keep those qualities consistent. Knowing what you look for others will help you stay authentic to yourself.

6.      Our progress will be held against us. The industry has developed and advanced substantially within the last few years. This progress can make others doubt our true integrity. Be ready to help educate and explain the positive advancements in the industry.

7.      YOU are the hitch pin. Imagine the farmer as the tractor and consumers as the wagon. YOU are the hitch pin. It is your responsibility to share the story of agriculture, especially your story. No one can share your story better than you can.

8.      IDK is OK. The agricultural industry is very broad, so not knowing every answer is okay. Saying “I don’t know that answer, but here is a resource that might help you find your answer” is okay! It’s impossible to know everything, so share what you can. 

9.     You need your sisters more than ever. Use the relationships and connections you have gained from school, activities and personal life to help you get where you’re going. Women are beginning to overcome the status quo, but there is still plenty of work to do to fully break the glass ceiling.

10.   Take the bull in life by the horns. Take advantage of the life you have and experience all it has to offer. As Laura said “take life by the horns.” Have no regrets and find a learning experience in it all.

Laura left us all with some great points to think about and utilize as we continue writing our #rootsinboots story. When sharing your story and helping educate others, it might help to keep in mind this nugget of truth that Laura shared at the GROW conference in Iowa: “Things have changed, farms have changed, the heart of the farmer has not.”

Find more inspiring #RootsinBoots stories below:

• Women in Ag: Tracing Amy Rohe’s #RootsinBoots
• Women in Ag: Tracing Kilah Hemesath’s #RootsinBoots
• Women in Ag: Tracing Jenna Braun’s #RootsinBoots
• Women in Ag: Tracing Ali Luety’s #RootsinBoots
• Women in Ag: Tracing Jessica Faust’s #RootsinBoots
• Women in Ag: Tracing Josie Burgett’s #RootsinBoots

___

Without strong women to help shape and manage our company, Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds would be a very different company than it is today. We understand the key roles women play in everything from purchasing seed to marketing grain, from public relations and event planning to sales and customer service. That’s why we’re celebrating women who are doing what they love. From now through November, we’re showcasing women in agriculture by telling their #RootsinBoots stories. Follow along and be inspired by FarmHers across Iowa!

We’re looking for women, ages 18 to 108, who have a passion for agriculture and are willing to share their farm stories. Simply post photos of yourself on Instagram or Facebook using the hashtags #RootsinBoots #LathamSeeds and #FarmHer. Let your personality and work ethic show. We want to see what a “day in the life” of you is like!

Because each woman in agriculture is unique, everyone who submits a photo of herself either working in the field or working with livestock will be entered to win a $500 shopping spree at Western Edge LTD. There’s no limit to the number of entries, so increase your chances by posting across platforms via Twitter, Instagram and Facebook. Go to https://www.lathamseeds.com/rootsinboots/ or click here for more information.