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Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds

Unique Partnership Allows FFA Members to Learn the Ropes of Beef Production
Think you can’t have a beef project because you don’t live on a farm? Think again!

Fewer than 25 percent of members of the Clear Lake FFA in Iowa have a rural background, but that’s not stopping a determined group of young women from learning the ropes.

“People in the cattle industry don’t carry your bag around, but they’re more than willing to lend a helping hand and share advice as long as you’re coachable,” says Emma Pingel, who traded in her competitive dancing shoes for cowboy boots. “My dad showed cattle when he was growing up, but my parents moved to town when I was four years old. I’ve always wanted to show cattle, and now I have the opportunity.”

Jocelyn Orchard, Emery Hippen, Haley Jackson, Kjersten Ouverson, Emma Behrends and Olivia Orchard

Thanks to former Iowa Falls FFA advisor Doug Dodd, these seven Clear Lake FFA members are getting experience raising and showing cattle:
1. Emma Pingel, senior, who also served as Clear Lake FFA Chapter President 2021-2022 and North Central District Vice President 2021-2022
2. Haley Jackson, senior
3. Olivia Orchard, junior
4. Emma Behrends, junior
5. Kjersten Ouverson, junior
6. Emery Hippen, sophomore
7. Jocelyn Orchard, sixth grade
Dodd used to be a full-time ag teacher. Although he works for Titan Pro now, he sometimes serves as a substitute ag teacher in Clear Lake. A cattle producer, Dodd offered this opportunity for a beef SAE to anyone who was interested. Because he owns the cattle, he purchases the feed. Kjersten Ouverson’s family is providing facilities for the cattle. Clear Lake FFA and/or 4-H members provide the labor.

The hours students spend doing cattle chores either go toward their 4-H Beef Project, FFA Supervised Agricultural Experience (SAE) or earning an FFA degree. Each student has a set time and day of the week that she is responsible for doing chores. If her schedule changes, it’s her responsibility to switch chore times with another member. Mr. Dodd, who regularly chores on Wednesday and Sunday nights, also is willing to pick up an extra shift when needed.

After picking up their cattle in November and December, the FFA members began working to tame their stock.

“You’re not going to get up at 5:30 a.m. to do chores before school or come out here when its freezing cold unless you love it,” says Haley.

Haley Jackson

These FFA members have spent a minimum of one day per week, often on Saturdays, working with their cattle and grooming them. Once the school year ends, they will work with them more often. These calves will be broke to lead by the time they enter the ring of the North Iowa Fair in August.

“You learn a lot of patience. You can’t rush building trust,” says Jocelyn, who is in her second year of an FFA beef project. She says her second year of working with cattle is easier because she is more experienced and has gained confidence. She’s also enjoying the comradery with her fellow chapter members who are keeping their projects on the same farm.

With experience comes bigger goals. This group of young women visited with me about changes they would like to make to the barn. They would like to create a supply room in another area of the barn, which would create more space for their cattle to come in out of the weather. They made a few minor changes this year when they cleaned out a side of the barn that had been unused for quite some time.

Emma earned her welding certificate last spring and Haley earned hers this year, so they have worked on a few gates and welded some pins. Haley plans to major in Building Trades next fall at North Iowa Area Community College (NIACC) where she is certain to gain even more skills that will be invaluable on the farm.

Filling a Niche with Aberdeen Breed

Aberdeen, formerly called Lowlines, were developed from an Australian government program with Aberdeen Angus from Canada. They boast a 30 percent larger ribeye per pound of body weight. Mr. Dodd says he expects his Aberdeen steers to have an 11- to 11.5-inch ribeye at 800 to 850 pounds of live weight.

“The Aberdeen meat is tender, high quality and lower cost due to less inputs and smaller carcasses,” explains Mr. Dodd.

Aberdeen have become very popular with those who own small acreages and market beef directly.

“Due to their smaller size, an Aberdeen herd requires less feed, land and equipment to produce high quality cuts,” adds Dodd. “This breed is very docile and are easy calvers. You can cross them. Half-bloods are very popular to pull down frame scores on commercial cows, and many fullblood bulls are used in purebred herds for heifers having their first calves.”

Celebrating May Beef Month

Not only is beef delicious, it is nutritious. One serving of beef, which is three ounces or about the size of an iPhone, provides our bodies with nearly half of its needed protein plus 10 essential nutrients including zinc, iron, protein (ZIP) and B vitamins.

A moderate increase in dietary protein combined with physical activity can help a person manage weight by increasing heat produced in the body, which helps a person feel full longer, prolongs energy expenditure, helping maintain lean muscle mass and improves metabolism.

In celebration of May Beef Month, today we’re sharing a recipe that is popular with teens and is versatile enough to be served at graduation receptions for tacos and loaded nachos.
shannonlatham

May 19, 2022

Beef, Food & Family, General, Recipes
Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds

Monster Cookies for Spring Planting!

From the time he was able to follow in his father’s shadow, Troy Johnson of Odebolt in West Central Iowa, spent as much time farming as possible. He began farming full-time with his father, Reese, upon graduating from high school. Shortly thereafter, Troy had the opportunity to purchase his first 40 acres.

The Johnson Family

The Johnsons raise corn, soybeans and alfalfa. They started using cover crops in 2015 and have expanded their cover crop acres every year. Benefits include increasing organic matter, controlling erosion, as well as better weed control and water infiltration.

“I’ve been planting Latham® soybeans since the beginning and started planting Latham Hybrids when they came out in 2004,” says Troy, a fourth generation Iowa farmer. “I’ve planted other brands for neighbors, and it’s easy to see the difference in quality when you open a bag. Latham is known for its high-quality standards, and its reputation is well deserved.”

When the Johnson’s neighbor Russ Wilken retired as a Latham® dealer, he asked if Troy would be interested in the dealership.

“I was already planting Latham, so it was a no brainer,” says Troy. “I always enjoy trying new things, so I appreciate getting to learn about new Latham products early. I really appreciate having a team of professionals available whenever I call. Latham Seeds provides us with great customer service.”

Just as Troy’s farming enterprise has grown throughout the years, so has his family. He and his wife, Kathi, are the proud parents of three daughters. Jaci is a sophomore at Odebolt-Arthur-Battle Creek-Ida Grove (OABCIG). She enjoys singing, reading and babysitting. Jaci also is involved in FFA. Sophi is in eighth grade. She plays the saxophone and is a volleyball player. In addition, Sophi enjoys designing cards with calligraphy. Tori, sixth grade, plays the piano and trumpet. She also plays volleyball, basketball and softball.

“We have been blessed to raise our children on the family farm,” says Kathi. “There are many values and lessons the girls have learned that will benefit them in the future. Although farming has its ups and downs, we are grateful to God for the life He has allowed us to live.”

A Tradition of Hospitality

Evelyn Latham, wife of Latham Seeds’ founder Willard Latham, was known for her gracious hospitality. She was sure to invite family, friends, neighbors and customers to sit down at the table to enjoy a fresh cup of coffee with a plate full of homemade cookies. It’s no wonder she was named Master Farm Homemaker in 1962 by Wallaces Farmer!

Throughout the years, we have shared some of Evelyn’s favorite recipes with our dealers and their families. We were delighted when Kathi shared with us that Jaci’s Monster Cookies advanced from the county 4-H competition to the 2017 Iowa State Fair. We can only imagine how delighted Evelyn would have been, knowing Jaci was creating wonderful memories with her mother in their kitchen.

“It was an honor to have my cookies selected to go to state,” Jaci, who earned a blue ribbon at the Iowa State Fair with her Monster Cookies. “I was not expecting that because 2017 was my first year exhibiting 4-H projects at the fair.”

Today we’re once again sharing Evelyn’s Monster Cookie recipe with our readers. We hope you’re able to share a cup of coffee and a few heartwarming smiles with friends, families and neighbors as you enjoy a few homemade cookies. Perhaps you can enjoy a few cookies this planting season!

shannonlatham

May 13, 2022

Corn, Desserts, Food & Family, General, Recipes, Soybeans, Spring
Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds

Empty Nesters Make Room for Hobbies
Jodi and Steve Roelofs

Steve and Jodi Roelofs (pronounced Row-loffs) live in a garden spot near Mankato, Minnesota. It’s only fitting to shine a spotlight on their operation during National Gardening Month in April.

Jodi’s passion for gardening and re-purposing vintage furniture and equipment is evident from the moment one pulls into their yard. Pots and gardens filled with lush, color flowers. Her vegetable garden is a work of art. The backyard looks like something from a “Country Living” or “Better Homes & Gardens” photo shoot.

The couple raised their family in the farmhouse next door where Steve was raised. Today that house serves as Steve’s farm office and Jodi’s workshop. The former kitchen and living room are filled with projects in various stages of re-purposing.

Jodi studied graphic arts at South Central College in Mankato where she met Steve, who studied ag production. She says she began working part-time at flower shops when her kids were small because it allowed her to enjoy adult conversation and provided her with a creative outlet. The scale of Jodi’s gardens has grown as her children grew.

The Roelofs are the proud parents of four sons:
- Tony, 36, worked at ADM. He started in Lloydminster, Canada, and then moved to Red Wing, Minnesota, before getting transferred to Valdosta, Georgia. He has moved several other times. Tony currently works for Columbia Grain. He and his wife, Lynette, live in Portland, Oregon, where she is a forensic psychologist.
- Christopher, 34, works the night shift for UPS. When the trucks come in, he repairs them before the next day. He also has his own shop to work on cars.
- Bryant, 30, farmed for six years with Steve before going to work for Speedy. He is getting married in June 2022 on the Roelofs farm. His fiancé, Tiffany, works at the Orthopaedic and Fracture Clinic in Mankato.
- Matthew, 23, is studying history and political science. He will graduate in May 2022 from South Dakota State in Brookings.
The Roelofs Family

Jodi also served as a 4-H leader from the time their oldest son was 10 years old until their youngest son graduated in May 2017. During her tenure as a 4-H leader, she shared her passion with New Horizon 4-H Club members. They won an award from the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources for the bird feeding station they built on the Blue Earth County Fairgrounds in Garden City, Minnesota.

“We had so much fun at the fair with our kids,” said Jodi, who grew up on a Minnesota dairy farm and belonged to 4-H.

Steve and Jodi say they particularly enjoyed staying at the state fair with their kids, who showed pigs. Adults stayed in the camper, while the kids slept in tents or in the hog barn. While that night of sleep might not have been best, it made for great memories.

These empty nesters are embracing this new chapter of life. They’ve learned to adjust and adapt through the years.

Jodi in the Flower Shop

When Steve and Jodi’s oldest son went to college, the family stopped farrowing. Jodi had been working in the farrowing barns, so this change gave her the opportunity to return to working in a floral shop. Steve and his brother, who had been farming together in a family corporation, decided to split the operation. A market crash prompted them to reevaluate the pork operation. Since 2015, Steve has leased his pig barns.

“This arrangement works well for us,” says Steve. “We’re responsible for the day-to-day care of the feeder pigs but we don’t have to assume any of the risk. Each month we know exactly what we’ll make.”

Selling Latham® brand seed also complements the family’s grain and pork operations. They’ve cut expenses while increasing income.

“We went to FarmFest and spoke with a few different seed companies about dealerships,” says Steve. “We really liked the idea of working with a family-owned seed company.”

The growing season is a busy time for the Roelofs. They grow corn and soybeans plus care for large gardens. Jodi plants and sells produce, including pumpkins, squash and gourds.

Once the fall field work is done and the season changes, the couple looks forward to snowmobiling. They enjoy outdoor activities all year long from driving around and looking at crops to spending time at their cabin where they enjoy pontooning, water skiing and jet skiing with their kids.

The Roelofs also enjoys family dinners. They’re sharing one of their favorite recipes for Crunchy Pork Chops.
shannonlatham

April 29, 2022

Food & Family, General, Pork, Recipes
Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds

Exploring new dishes before returning to family favorites

Many cooks enjoy exploring new recipes and styles of cooking, but they usually come back to familiar favorites. The pattern also holds for farm kids. Many like to explore new parts of the country and ways of life but eventually come back to the farm that has been in their families for generations.

Brothers Ross and Levi Brown of Dell Rapids, South Dakota, didn’t plan to take over the family farm from their parents, Kevin and Renee.

Ross graduated from Dell Rapids High School in 2005 and then went to basic training and Air Force technical training. In 2006, he started taking classes at South Dakota State University (SDSU) in Brookings where he majored in Aviation Management. He was deployed three times, ranging from two to four months each time.

After graduating from high school in 2008, Levi had intended to become an engineer. He enrolled in the School of Mines, but it only took him one semester to realize that that college wasn’t the best fit for him. The following semester he transferred to SDSU where he earned a bachelor’s degree by double-majoring in Agricultural Business and Finance with a minor in Economics. Due to Ross’s deployments, he and Levi graduated from SDSU on the same day.

Levi and Olivia Brown and Family

Levi met his future wife, Olivia, in Brookings. Olivia earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) from SDSU and graduated in August 2019 with a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP). She currently practices at Avera Health. After working for a few years for a farmer in Mitchell, Levi and Olivia moved to a farmstead three miles northwest of the home place where they established their home. They are the proud parents of 5-year-old Cora and 10-month-old Griffin.

Ross returned to the family farm in 2012 after working a couple of years at Raven Industries. He spent a great deal of time traveling for his job and realized how much time he would be sacrificing away from family if he continued in aviation.

Ross and his wife, Jen, are the proud parents of nine-year-old Elsa, seven-year-old Joe, five-year-old Arlo, and 1-year-old Rollie. Jen teaches first grade in Sioux Falls and is dedicated to making a difference in her students’ lives. Ross continues to serve in the Air National Guard. His 20th year of service will be 2025. Ross and Jen and their family live across the section to the north from the home place.

Ross and Jen Brown and Family

“Ross and Levi have really embraced technology, and that’s helped the bottom line of the farm,” says Kevin. “Technology adds another level of management, so I’m turning the reins over to them. They order our seed, chemicals and fertilizer because they know the prescriptions for each farm.”

The Browns farm separately, yet together. They also have a Latham Seed’s dealership. In addition to raising crops, Kevin and Levi each finish feeder cattle. Ross also finishes feeder cattle and calves about 120 cows each spring.

Today the Browns are sharing a family favorite recipe that promotes the beef they raise.

shannonlatham

April 21, 2022

Beef, Food & Family, General, Precision Ag, Recipes
Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds

Get Ready for the Ride of Your Life!

Gene Thormodsgaard raised his children two miles north of his family’s farm in Beresford, South Dakota, but he traveled thousands of miles before returning to the land and the lifestyle he has always loved.

After graduating from high school in 1960, Gene moved east for opportunity.

“My dad told me not to be a farmer, so I tried following his advice,” recalls Gene. “My brother and his friend were living in southern Illinois and working in the ironworks. They told me the pay was better out east, so I moved to Janesville, Wisconsin. I worked in Wisconsin for a year but realized factory life wasn’t for me. I moved home and went to work at the co-op. I really enjoyed working with farmers.”

Shortly thereafter, Gene was drafted into the United States Army. He served with the 724th maintenance battalion from 1964 to 1966 in southern Bavaria during the Vietnam War. He was a teletype operator with Company A of the 24^th Infantry Division in Augsburg, Germany.

When his military service was complete, Gene returned to Bearsford. He started working once again at the co-op, delivering fuel to farmers. Gene also began farming rented ground in 1968. When one of his parents’ neighbors got hurt, Gene was given the chance to buy his farm. Gene bought his first farm at age 27.

Gene’s bachelor years consisted of working and farming until one life-changing evening when he and a buddy drove into Sioux Falls. They saw a couple of girls sitting at a table. Like the lyrics to Franki Valli’s 1967 hit, “Can’t take my eyes off of you,” Gene was drawn to Carol. The couple was married in 1974.

The newlyweds made their home on the farm Gene has purchased. They were blessed with two sons.

“Carol is an organizer extraordinaire,” says Gene with a smile. “She does so much for all of us.”

In 1975, Gene and his neighbors decided to buy Northrup-King seed together to save money. Back then, seed was delivered on a flatbed truck. The truck driver backed up to the barn, and every bag was manually unloaded.

“My NK rep made the move to Latham Seeds, and he encouraged me to try some,” says Gene. “I wasn’t getting the product I wanted from NK at the time, so I tried Latham® soybeans. They were great! When you pulled the rip cord, you didn’t see dust. There was nothing but pure seed inside a bag. Once my customers tried Latham, they didn’t want to plant anything else. It wasn’t long before Latham was all I sold. Latham remains the best quality seed on the market.”

Gene enjoys working with farmers and selling seed so much that he continues to operate his dealership. Like many good farmers, he won’t ever really retire. One of his neighbors began renting Gene and Carol’s farm ground in 2012, but Gene still helps him put in and take out the crop each year.

“I got into Latham because of the quality of the seed, but I’ve stayed with the company because of the quality and they are a great company to do business,” says Gene. “My RSM, Ramie Coughlin, is always there when I need her. She does an awesome job.”

In addition to selling seed and farming, Gene has been active in his community. He is a member of the VFW Legion. He served on Co-op Service Association at Bearsford for 12 years, and then he started serving on the board of the Eastern South Dakota Soil & Water Research Farm in Brookings. Gene was its treasurer for 30 years and remains an active board member. He served on the Lincoln County Conservation Board for 48 years. Gene is also active in his church and has served on church council. He has been a deacon and trustee, as well. When his children were young, Gene taught Sunday school. Gene’s wife Carol was involved in ladies aid as president and vice president through the years. She was involved as a Cub Scout leader and the Thormodsgaard family was awarded Cub Scout Family of the Year. Carol enjoys keeping up with landscaping and her flower gardens across the farm.

The Thormodsgaard’s oldest son, Tyson, is a senior software engineer for Lockheed Martin. His wife, Jenny, is a speech pathologist in Colorado Springs. Their 15-year-old son, Colin, has medaled in golf. Their 13 daughter, Annika, has earned two black belts in Tao Kwando. The Thormodsgaard’s youngest son, Trent, is an account rep for PartsDoctor.com. His wife Victorria is a registered nurse. She is the manager of the case management department at Sanford Health in Sioux Falls.

The Thormodsgaard Family

Tyson and Jenny Thormodsgaard

Trent and Victorria Thormodsgaard

The Ride of His Life

Trent gave Gene, a race fan, the gift of driving a stock car at the racetrack in Newton, Iowa. Due to the worldwide COVID-19 pandemic, the outing was postponed until August 2021. After two hours of instruction, Gene got behind the wheel.

“I was 79 when I crawled in there! You have to crawl through the window, and it’s really tight inside the car,” explains Gene. “My son thinks I was running 120 miles per hour around that truck. I didn’t dare put it to the floorboard! That was quite the experience and I sure enjoyed it. I met the nicest people there and became instant friends with a guy from Wisconsin, who attended the driving school with me.”

Gene and Carol enjoy unique experiences, which is one of the reasons they look forward to attending the annual Latham® Dealer Kickoff meetings. They also enjoy traveling as often as possible to visit their grandchildren in Colorado. They also enjoyed visiting Gene’s great aunt, who lived in Washington state. In loving memory of her, the Thormodsgaards are sharing a recipe that Aunt Hannah used to make when they visited her.

“This hearty salad is a great choice to brighten up a cool Midwest day, or a great way to cool down on a hot summer’s evening,” says Carol. “It especially good with a glass of white wine.”

shannonlatham

April 14, 2022

Appetizers, Food & Family, General, Pork, Recipes, Sides, Summer
Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds

Living the Four H’s in Rural Minnesota

I pledge My HEAD to clearer thinking, My HEART to greater loyalty, My HANDS to larger service and My HEALTH to better living, for my CLUB, my COMMUNITY, my COUNTRY and my WORLD.

The 4-H Pledge isn’t something the Mattsons simply recite; it’s a credo they live by.

“4-H Beef and Dairy Projects have allowed three generations to work side by side,” says Kerri, who grew up on a Wisconsin farm and has served as a 4-H leader for 15 years. “It’s so rewarding to be involved in an operation where parents, kids and grandkids work together to accomplish the day-to-day goals. Our kids learned to accept responsibility at a young age, and they developed a work ethic they can use everywhere.”

It’s these shared values that brought Matt and Kerri together when they were college students at University of Wisconsin – River Falls. Matt studied Ag Business and Animal Science, and Kerri double-majored in Chemistry and Secondary Education. After they were married in 1994, Kerri finished her coursework and graduated from University of Minnesota Morris.

Matt and Kerri have raised their three children on their family farm near Kensington, Minnesota.

The Mattson Family

Faith, family and farming sustained this family in the face of tragedy when their daughter, Taylor, passed away in April 2021 due to a car accident.

Family and Friends Celebrating Taylor Mattson’s Life.

“Looking back, the pandemic was a blessing for our family. We spent more time together, playing games, laughing and growing closer. We will forever cherish those times,” says Kerri. “Our faith in Jesus Christ and his triumph over the grave and his sacrifice for our sins is the cornerstone of our family. Our faith is what gives us the strength to move forward after Taylor’s accident. Even though we are hurting, Christ gives us hope for our future.”

A memorial tree was planted in remembrance of Taylor.

Many of the activities in which Matt and Kerri are involved honor Taylor’s interests. She belonged to the Ben Wade Blazers 4-H Club. Taylor was West Central Area (WCA) Football and Boys Basketball Manager, a WCA Track Athlete, as well as a Main Street Athletics Athlete and Coach. She also served as a Kensington Covenant Church Sunday School Helper and enjoyed showing cattle. Their oldest son, Zachary, works as a butcher. He and his fiancée, Jenna, are planning a September 2022 wedding. The Mattson’s middle child, Austin, graduated in 2021. He is in first year of the Marine, Motorcycle, Powersports Technician program at Alexandria Technical & Community College.

Working in partnership with Matt’s parents, the Mattsons raise approximately 400 newborn dairy bull calves to around 500 pounds each year. They also have 90 cow/calf pairs on pasture. In addition, they grow corn, soybeans, alfalfa and small grains.

Matt’s father, Rodger, is the main cattle hauler and closely monitors the calves year-round. He also does much of the tillage work during the crop season. Matt’s mother, Patty, is the farm historian. She keeps records and organizes documents. Matt handles all the logistics. Kerri does the bookkeeping and crop insurance.

“Everyone is invaluable to our operation,” says Matt. “We have one almost full-time employee, Erick, who is like family. He has been with us for more than 15 years and is like another son/brother. We also get part-time help from our sons, our nephew and other friends as needed.”

In 2015, Matt and Kerri took on a Latham® dealership as another income stream.

“We would like to bring additional family members home, so we need other income opportunities like a seed dealership,” says Kerri. “We chose Latham because it is family owned and Latham team members share many of our values. It’s important to work with a company that you trust and for us that is Latham Seeds. Plus, Latham has one of the best seed lineups in the business.”

In addition to operating a multi-faceted farming enterprise, the Mattson family believes it is important to give back to their community. Matt is chairman at Kensington Covenant Church. He serves on the board of directors for Runestone Electric Cooperative and is president of West Central Area (WCA) Ag Boosters. Kerri is the Sunday School superintendent at Kensington Covenant Church. She is past president of the Pope County Farm Bureau and is currently chairing its Breakfast on the Farm. She also serves as the Nora Township Clerk/Treasurer, as well as treasurer for WCA Ag Boosters and the Pope Co. Ag Society.

Community involvement and farm chores don’t get in the way of family time, however. The Mattsons make time to sit down and enjoy meals together. Today they’re sharing with us one of their favorite ways to enjoy the beef they raise. Enjoy their Upside Down Meatloaf recipe below!

shannonlatham

April 7, 2022

Beef, Food & Family, General
Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds

Iowa Ag Secretary Recognizes Latham Seeds’ 75th Anniversary

Happy National Ag Week! This annual event is a great opportunity to say thank you to the farmers and agribusinesses that provide food and fuel for all of us. National Ag Week also provides us with an opportunity to showcase the importance of agriculture to others across our nation, as well as around the world.

Because one of his main responsibilities is being the chief promoter and advocate for Iowa agriculture, today we’re shining a spotlight on Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig. He was born and raised on his family’s Century Farm near Cylinder, Iowa, where they raised crops and livestock. He remains active in the operation along with his father and uncle.

“The agriculture community shaped who I am. I still plant and harvest our family farm every year,” says Sec. Naig, who was elected in 2018 and is running for re-election in 2022.

Secretary Naig and his wife, Jaime, have three boys. Picture from L-R: Jaime, Zach, Mike, Joe, Mitch

“I’ve been in agriculture my entire life. I believe it’s important that the person holding the title of Secretary actually has experienced the industry, so they have a deep understanding of the challenges that our agriculture community faces daily.”

The people in Iowa’s agriculture community make this job worth doing, says Sec. Naig. Our farmers help feed, fuel and clothe the world. In addition, Iowa Agriculture is critical to the health of state’s economy and that of local communities.

Agriculture is about producing food and Secretary Naig has a passion to reduce food insecurity in our state. During a recent visit to the Bremer County Food Bank, he learned about a partnership between the food bank and a local pork producer who regularly donates.

“Our farmers and agribusinesses work hard every single day to feed and fuel consumers here and across the world. I am incredibly grateful for the opportunity to work alongside them, hear their concerns, and then work together to solve those challenges,” says Sec. Naig. “My top priorities in this role include expanding markets domestically and internationally for Iowa’s farmers, accelerating the implementation of conservation practices that improve water quality, and supporting the next generation of leaders in Iowa agriculture.”

Secretary Naig recently made a visit to Clarion Locker, who is working to attain Cooperative Interstate Shipping status (CIS). The CIS program was implemented by Sec. Naig in early 2020 and provide meat lockers with the ability to remain under state inspection while also allowing them to ship their products across state lines to enter new markets.

Whether it’s representing Iowa on an international trade mission or meeting with a business that is considering moving into Iowa, Sec. Naig says he is always excited to share the great things we have going on in our state and agriculture community.

“Latham Seeds is a great Iowa business that supports Iowa’s farmers with the latest products and technologies on the market,” says Sec. Naig. “I love seeing a family business have such great success over the course of so many generations. Congratulations on 75 years of business and here’s to many more!”

Farm families celebrate special events, including milestone anniversaries and holidays, with food. When the Naig family gathers, kringla is usually served.

“Like most families, we’ve passed this kringla recipe down from previous generations. But it seems like no matter how closely we follow the recipe, we can never make it the same as mom,” says Sec. Naig. “Mom has a special way that is always far superior. I suppose that’s the case when you know the ingredients and process by heart, so you don’t have to rely on a recipe like we do at our house!”

Making kringla is an activity the Naig family enjoys.

“Jaime and I have never had an issue recruiting our boys to help with the rolling and shaping that’s required. After all, helping in the kitchen makes it a lot easier for them to sneak a bite when they’re still warm out of the oven.”

In celebration of strong families and productive farmers everywhere, enjoy this kringla recipe!

shannonlatham

March 24, 2022

Agriculture, Breads/Breakfast, Desserts, Food & Family, General, Industry News, Recipes
Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds

Surround Yourself with Greatness

Like all great athletes and entrepreneurs, Myron Keltgen has learned it pays to surround yourself with greatness. He was fortunate to get his start in the seed business in 1984 with Keltgen Seed Co.

Myron Keltgen, Corn Product Specialist

“I feel kind of like Brett Favre… I have one last chance to win the big one with the team that will carry me to the goal line,” says Keltgen, who has served as Western Corn Product Specialist for Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds since July 2015. Myron also is a Latham® dealer through Lake Area Ag, which he owns and operates. “The thing that most excites me about Latham is the people on the team.”

The ability to talk to the people who make the decisions is something Myron enjoyed about working for Keltgen Seed. Myron’s father, Darwin, and Darwin’s brother, Keith, started the family-owned seed company.

“If I had an issue, I could go right to the president for help,” says Myron. “If I made a call in the field, I knew they trusted my judgement and would stand behind me. I also knew they sincerely cared about our customers and dealers. This is also what I enjoy about working with family-owned Latham Seeds. I can call John, Shannon or Chris Latham anytime I need help, and they will be there. They also are very sincere. They respect our dealers and customers and greatly care about each one’s success.”

One way Latham Seeds helps set up its dealers and customers for success is by offering the industry’s newest and most effective traits in genetics packages that are specific to the geographies the company serves. Myron’s passion has always been watching crops develop throughout the season, so product development is a great fit for his background and interests.

Myron spends countless hours walking soybean and corn fields every week throughout the growing season, looking for something that differentiates one product from another. He especially enjoys helping select products for Latham’s lineup. He also enjoys the opportunity to work with Gary Geske, who was a district sales manager at Keltgen Seeds and serves as Latham’s Northern Corn Product Specialist.

“I still enjoy calling on friends and customers from when I worked at Keltgen and Wensman,” says Myron. “I enjoy visiting with them and getting updates on their kids and grandkids. My youngest son, Jason, has joined the Lake Area Ag dealership in Watertown. I’m enjoying the opportunity to work with both of my sons now.”

Myron’s oldest son, James, is a regional sales manager for Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds. He and his wife Laurie also are the proud parents of one daughter.

The Keltgen Family

“All our kids and grandkids live within an hour of us, so we’re blessed they’re all so close,” says Myron. The Keltgen family enjoys spending time together at their farm. Many of their fields are research sites for the products they sell.

When he’s not working or farming, Myron enjoys spending time with his family at the river. He especially loves fishing the Lake Ohae area and often serves as a fishing guide. Since the family does an extensive amount of fishing, they shared with us their favorite walleye recipe!

shannonlatham

March 17, 2022

Corn, Crop, Food & Family, General, Recipes, Seafood
Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds

Bring Your “A Game” to March Madness
This week college basketball teams and their loyal fans will travel to eight cities for 48 games during the first four-day weekend of America’s unofficial hoops holiday. They will then move to four cities for the Sweet 16 before arriving in New Orleans where the Final Four will run April 2-4.

We’re helping fans everywhere prepare with 10 themed recipes from our blog. Whether your favorite teams win or loses, you’ll always be a winner when you bring your “A Game” to the table! Good food makes the agony of defeat more bearable or the thrill of victory sweeter.

Iowans were thrilled on Selection Sunday, March 13, when both the University of Iowa Hawkeyes and the Iowa State University Cyclones were invited to The Big Dance. Fresh off a Big 10 Championship title, the University of Iowa Hawkeyes were given a 5-seed. The Hawks will play 12th-seeded Richmond Spiders, which also won its conference tournament, at 2:10 p.m. on March 17.

Iowa State University will play on Friday, March 17, at 6:20 p.m. After going 0-18 last season in the Big 12 and 2-22 overall, new head coach T.J. Otzelberger’s has led the Cyclones to their first NCAA tournament since 2019. The Cyclones will be an 11th-seed this year, matching up against the sixth-seeded Louisiana State University Tigers.

Throughout the basketball season, every free throw made by Iowa State University and University of Iowa, Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds donated to the American Cancer Society through Coaches vs Cancer!

The 2022 Iowa State University Check Presentation.

The 2022 University of Iowa Check Presentation.

Whether you want to cheer on your favorite teams while enjoying a St. Patrick’s Day feast, simple pub grub or southern comfort food, you’ll find it in our Game Day Recipe Roundup. Below are favorite recipes that were featured by Latham Seeds on “The Field Position:
Remember to tune into after the game to the Latham Locker Room Report on Cyclone Radio. The Latham Locker Room show is a post-game radio broadcast in which analysts, coaches and players share their thoughts on the game.
shannonlatham

March 15, 2022

Appetizers, Beef, Breads/Breakfast, Dairy, Desserts, General, Pork, Poultry, Recipes, Salads, Season, Sides, Soups, Spring
Latham Hi‑Tech Seeds

Finding Peace Behind the Tractor Wheel

Spring is a time of new beginnings for farmers across the Upper Midwest. It was fitting that in April 2014 Matt Wyatt left his full-time job of 18 years as claims supervisor for Rain & Hail Agricultural Insurance to fully enjoy this new season of life.

Matt enjoys planting and harvesting crops without distractions including checking email frequently and fielding multiple phone calls related to crop insurance.

Frank Wyatt with son Matt Wyatt

“I like knowing I’ll be home every night, and I like working with my dad,” says Matt, the fourth generation of Wyatts to farm near Hudson in Northeast Iowa.

Matt and Frank raise corn and soybeans. They also have an early wean-to-finish pork operation. In addition, Frank has been a Latham® dealer since 1995. Matt joined the dealership in 2015.

Being alone with his thoughts for a good part of the day took some getting used to as Matt transitioned from his corporate job to farming full time. Now he enjoys spending time outside where the birds sing and his phone isn’t chirping incessantly. He can concentrate on doing the day’s job and planning for the future.

“Even if they don’t decide to pursue farming, I want my children to have an appreciation for the process,” adds Matt. “I want them to experience a feeling of accomplishment at the end of the day, knowing the work that was done is all a part of something bigger.”

The Wyatt Family

Matt graduated in 1996 from Iowa State University (ISU) where he earned a bachelor’s degree in Agricultural Business with a minor in Agronomy. It’s also where he met his wife, Chelsea, who stays busy with her children’s school and community activities. The couple are the proud parents of two sons and a daughter: Cael, Aiden and Ava. Cael is a senior at ISU, majoring in Communication Studies. Aiden is a sophomore at ISU, majoring in Journalism. Ava is a high school junior, who is considering ISU for her future studies.

Active in the community, Chelsea organized the community soccer program and chaired the local parent-teacher association for several years. Matt helped coach the community’s youth wrestling program and served as a coach for Ava’s youth soccer team. Matt also has been president of the Gladbrook-Reinbeck School Board and is active in his local church. In addition, Matt and his father, Frank, are active in the Masonic Lodge.

In their free time, the Wyatts enjoy cheering on the Iowa State Cyclones and the Gladbrook-Reinbeck Rebels. Matt enjoys golfing, and Chelsea enjoys taking family vacations to the beach.

In honor of the pork they produce and the tropical vacations they enjoy, the Wyatts are sharing a family favorite recipe.

“It’s rare that I make the same thing twice, but this recipe is great for tailgating and entertaining,” says Chelsea. “You can whip it up the night before, it feeds a lot of people and is always a hit!

shannonlatham

March 10, 2022

Appetizers, Breads/Breakfast, Dairy, Food & Family, General, Pork, Recipes