Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Bill Northey today announced that Roger Zylstra and family of Lynnville are the winners of the January “Gary Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award.” Secretary Northey will present the award Thursday, January 15, at the Jasper County Farm Bureau Office in Newton.
“Roger and his family show a commitment to agriculture and the livestock industry,” Northey said. “Like other farmers throughout the state they illustrate the care for the land and concern for their neighbors that this award was designed to recognize.”
In nominating the Zylstra’s for the award, their neighbors Kevin and Julie Van Manen said, “Roger has worked with many different people locally and beyond. This is a true testament to his ability to work with others and be a good neighbor.”
Roger raises hogs and farms row crops. He also collaborated with other farmers to create CattleLink this year.
The Wergin Good Farm Neighbor award, made possible through the financial support of The Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers, recognizes Iowa livestock farmers who care for their farms, neighbors, and the environment. It is named in memory of Gary Wergin, a long-time WHO Radio farm broadcaster who helped create the award.
WHO Radio’s Big Show will broadcast live from the Jasper County Farm Bureau Office in Newton from 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. on January 15th.
To nominate, a neighbor should write a letter or e-mail explaining why their neighbor should receive this designation. Applications may be submitted to the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship, Attn: Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award, Henry A. Wallace Building, Des Moines, IA 50319 or emailed to tess.capps@iowaAgriculture.gov.
Northey, a corn and soybean farmer from Spirit Lake, is serving his first term as Secretary of Agriculture. His priorities as Secretary of Agriculture are the opportunities in renewable energy, conservation and stewardship, and telling the story of Iowa agriculture.