Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today presented the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award to the Longinaker family of Fremont County as part of Iowa Corn Day at the 2026 Iowa State Fair. The award recognizes Iowa livestock farmers who take pride in caring for the environment, their livestock and being good neighbors in their communities.
Will Longinaker is the fifth generation of his family to farm Longinaker Farms near Randolph. The family's roots in southwest Iowa agriculture date to 1870, when Will's great-great-grandfather purchased the original 120-acre farm. Five generations later, the operation has grown but has always remained rooted in crop and livestock production. The family received Heritage Farm recognition in 2020.
Will farms alongside his parents, Jay Longinaker and Lora Damme, with longtime farm employees Jelayne Cook and Cooper Avey also playing an important role in the operation. Will began farming full time in 2015 after graduating from Kansas State University, though he had been involved with the farm and cattle throughout his life. Today, the diversified operation includes a commercial cow-calf herd, a small cattle feedlot and the production of corn, soybeans and hay.
“Five generations on the same farm represents more than longevity. It reflects generations of hard work, stewardship, adaptability and a commitment to the community around you,” said Secretary Naig. “Will and the Longinaker family have continued that legacy by bringing together crops, cattle and conservation while also finding entrepreneurial ways to strengthen their operation and help other farmers succeed. Whether through agricultural leadership, community banking or simply giving their time to others, they have invested in the success of southwest Iowa agriculture and the communities they call home. That commitment to their land, livestock and neighbors makes them very deserving of the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award.”
Source : iowaagriculture.gov