Ron Nelson, a member of the Chisago County Farm Bureau, attended his first meeting in 2002. Since that night, he hasn’t looked back, serving on the Chisago County Board of Directors and as champion for growing Minnesota Farm Bureau membership. Nelson’s passion for agriculture started when he joined FFA in 1960, at age 14, helping him develop a strong set of communication skills and grow his passion for agriculture. This experience led him down a career path that has included everything from being a field representative to raising a variety of livestock and growing crops on his farm.

What is one thing you wish consumers knew about agriculture?

I wish consumers knew that a vast majority of farmers truly care about clean air, clean water, healthy and fertile soil, and the well-being of their animals. We work hard to be good stewards of the land and want to preserve our farms for future generations, guided by our values and faith.

Why do you believe it’s important to share the story of agriculture?

I believe it is our civic duty to share the story with family and friends so they will understand the importance of agriculture in America. Very few people live on farms anymore, which makes it harder for the general public to know what goes into producing food that is healthy and safe to eat.

What would you tell someone when they ask, “Why should I join Farm Bureau?”

We are a grassroots organization that includes farmers, landowners and businesses. Members at the local, state and national level work together to support farming and farm families. FFA chapters and county 4-H programs work with Farm Bureau to help young people learn about agriculture and enter into or continue farming or ranching. We keep positive connections between rural and urban Minnesota, which ultimately leads to a strong membership that represents agriculture in a broad and meaningful way.

What is your favorite agriculture memory?

My mom and dad, along with my uncle, taught us how to work at a very young age. In the 1950s, we would visit my grandpa’s farm and watch him milk cows and farm with horses. On our farm, we milked cows by hand, fed livestock and raised chickens. Then, in 1961, I raised my first few acres of corn and bought my first two bred gilts.

How has agriculture shaped who you are?

All of my jobs have been connected to agriculture. In high school, I joined FFA, where I learned how to communicate with people. That experience set me on a strong career path working with others in agriculture. Over the years, I became a field representative for Wisconsin Feeder Pig Company, worked as a seed dealer, represented Macdonald’s Feeds and spent time working at the Rush City Co-op. On my own farm, I raised hogs, beef cattle, corn, soybeans and alfalfa, both on my home place and on rented land around Rush City. Eventually, joining Farm Bureau opened even more doors for me to meet people and get involved through volunteering.

Ron’s Favorite Events:
  • LEAP Conference
  • Volunteering at Farmfest
  • Volunteering at the Minnesota State Fair