Ted Mottaz of Elmwood, Ill., is a 2020 Master Farmer award winner. Ted and seven other Master Farmers were recognized for their accomplishments at the Farm Progress Show on Sept. 2.
Today, Ted and wife Janet raise 1,500 acres of corn and soybeans in partnership with Ted’s brother Jeff. Ted was nominated by his niece Sarah Grant, manager of McDonough County Farm Bureau.
Ted says his farming philosophy combines productivity, stewardship and innovation — undeniably, a part of his roots.
“In 1960, we had a four-row combine. That was unheard of,” Ted recalls. “They were progressive to the point that when autosteer came in, we were one of the early ones in the county to have it — and now we can’t drive without it.”
Ted as well as the other 2020 Master Farmers were unable to be recognized at the annual Master Farmer awards luncheon due to the pandemic. Therefore, a combined 2020 and 2021 awards program emceed by farm broadcaster Max Armstrong was held during the recent Farm Progress Show.
To learn more about what makes Ted an exceptional farmer, read his story. Also, be sure to watch the video below:
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