Saying goodbye isn’t easy. I’m retiring Dec. 31 as editor of this magazine. I joined Wallaces Farmer in 1976 as a field editor covering crops and conservation.

It’s been an honor to write about Iowa agriculture and its many changes. Special thanks to everyone who helped me — farmers, Iowa State University Extension specialists, company sources, and those from government agencies, farm organizations, commodity groups and more. The list is long. The information provided by a writer is only as good as his or her sources. I’ve worked with the best.

I’m thankful for the support of colleagues and staff at Wallaces Farmer and Farm Progress. Their assistance and guidance are appreciated. I’m especially grateful for the support of my family. Most gratifying has been the interest of loyal readers. This has been a true privilege.

Perhaps the best way to describe how I value my 44 years of work is to note the unique history of this magazine and its name. This 170-year-old publication has deep roots in Iowa and U.S. agriculture. There have only been 10 editors in the history of this publication. I’m No. 10. The first three were Henry Wallace, his son Henry C., and his son (the first Henry’s grandson) Henry A.

The first Henry founded the magazine. Both Henry C. and Henry A. served as U.S. secretary of agriculture. Henry A. was U.S. vice president during World War II. This Iowa story is an American story of growth, service and progress. From cultivating ideas and providing information to improve the lives of family farmers, all the way to the invention of hybrid corn, it represents an exceptional history.

Coming home to Iowa

My successor is Tyler Harris. A University of Iowa graduate, Tyler was a Wallaces Farmer summer intern in 2012. Afterward, he was hired as a field editor, writing for several Farm Progress state farm magazines. In 2015, he became editor of Nebraska Farmer. Now, he’s coming home to Iowa. Tyler grew up on a farm near Creston, where his parents raise cattle.

When Tyler applied for the internship, he told me this was one of the first magazines he read as a child. He wanted to write for a farm magazine. He is a serious, sincere young man. I’m proud to have had a role working with him as he began his career. We’ve had talented interns over the years who got their start here. I hope Wallaces Farmer can continue this worthwhile internship program in the future.

The year 2020 is one of challenge and change, as the global COVID-19 pandemic has altered everyday life. As agriculture continues to adjust and face the challenges, Wallaces Famer will bring you feature articles, news and educational columns to help you stay informed and manage your farm. Tyler will be here to help guide Wallaces Farmer, serving Iowa agriculture both in print and online.