Dustin and Katie Wiese of Cass County Farm Bureau recently marked the next step in a national milestone by selecting a new Case IH round baler after being named national runners-up in the 2025 American Farm Bureau Federation (AFBF) Young Farmers & Ranchers Achievement Award competition. 

The Wieses earned national recognition during the AFBF Annual Convention held last year in San Antonio, Texas where they stood among the top young farmers and ranchers from across the country. As national runners-up, they received $25,000 toward the purchase of new farm equipment, an award from Case IH designed to support the continued growth of the next generation. The couple selected their baler from Arnold’s Case IH Dealership of St. Cloud.

“Farm Bureau has pushed us to grow not only as ranchers, but as leaders, and it was humbling to be named national runners-up,” said Dustin. “This award is an investment in our ranch and our future and we are grateful for the support from the Minnesota Farm Bureau, Cass County Farm Bureau, and everyone who encouraged us along the way. We hope it inspires others to get involved and take advantage of the many opportunities Farm Bureau offers.” 

The Achievement Award recognizes individuals and couples who excel in production agriculture while demonstrating strong leadership in Farm Bureau and their communities. 

The Wieses’ recognition marked the second-consecutive year Minnesota earned a top-two finish in the national contest, showcasing the strength of the state’s young farmers and the impact Farm Bureau programs have in supporting the next generation of agricultural leaders.