It was more than 20 years ago that KDHL teamed up with the Steele County Free Fair to recognize three finalists and a Southern Minnesota Ag Ambassador of the year at the Steele County Fair. The presentation is made Saturday evening in the Livestock Show Arena just before the Minnesota Holstein Show. The idea is to recognize and thank individuals that are promoting agriculture and educating the consumer about agriculture and how farmers take care of their land and livestock.

The three finalists honored at the Steele County Fair Saturday evening were Eugene Larson (on the left) from Ellendale, Gary Thome (center) from Adams and Keith Schrader (right) from Nerstrand. The Steele County Free Fair KDHL Southern Minnesota Ag Ambassador of the Year was Keith Schrader from Nerstrand. Keith and Carol farm with two sons raising corn and soybeans. Keith is the past President of the Minnesota Soybean and Research Council and still serves on the council board. Keith has taken many trips overseas representing Minnesota Soybean farmers and hosted many foreign delegations at their farm.

Eugene Larson from Ellendale was honored for his work locally promoting agriculture with the Steele County Corn and Soybean Growers. For many decades Eugene was at fairs, farm shows and other events education and promoting ethanol, making mini-donuts and also serving on the local board as treasurer. The other finalist honored was Gary Thome from Adams. Gary began his career in agriculture as a High School Ag Teacher, Adult Farm Business management instructor and then had the opportunity to return home and farm. Gary and two sons raise corn and are pork producers. Gary has been very involved with the Minnesota Pork Producers and hosted many foreign delegations along with other tours and groups.

 

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