Begun in 1926, the Iowa Master Farmer program is the longest-running farmer recognition program in the country. For 2022, four farmers are being added to its ranks and will be recognized in a special ceremony later in March, along with an honorary Master Farmer for his exceptional service to agriculture.

When Henry A. Wallace, editor of Wallaces Farmer from 1921 to 1933, instituted the award, he used the magazine’s motto, “Good Farming, Clear Thinking, Right Living,” as its foundation. Award nominees are held to a higher standard, requiring they not only skillfully manage their farms and market their products, but also invest time and resources in pursuit of a successful family and community.

Starting March 11, Wallaces Farmer will highlight one honoree each day online. Celebrate these honorees for their contributions to agriculture:

One letter supporting Kassel’s recognition stated: “Paul cares deeply about farmers and promotes their success through his tireless efforts. His field days, educational workshops and other activities were well-attended, well-respected and impactful on the lives of those attending, as well as on the natural resources held precious by our state.”

Master Farmer John and Deanna Heisdorffer. From Keota, John Heisdorffer has worked as hard off the farm as he has on the farm. During his tenure as president of the American Soybean Association, the Trump administration initiated trade sanctions with China. That move had him making regular trips to Washington to discuss the sanctions’ impact on farmers.

Heisdorffer works with his son these days, but his work for farmers beyond those “trade talk” days has been important to producers across the country.

A writer in support of Heisdorffer’s nomination recalled his work during that trade challenge: “Throughout this crisis, John led [the American Soybean Association] with a steady hand and conviction. He did countless media interviews in which he relayed the message that the United States and China need to resolve our trade dispute and restore a fair trading relationship. He delivered this message consistently on behalf of U.S. soybean farmers to the U.S. administration, Congress and Chinese leaders.”

Master Famer Mark and Jerilyn Mueller. Mark Mueller of Waverly has built his farm while supporting agriculture trade on the global stage. His work with the U.S. Grains Council and the Iowa Corn Growers Association has helped him build his farm business. His concern for soil health in his operation has turned into a cover crop seed business, and he looks for opportunities in other ways too.

As one supporter wrote: “[Mark] diligently nurtures an extensive network of contacts in agriculture, as well as other businesses, learning from the experiences of others, sharing his own knowledge, identifying tools to enhance management of his operation, and identifying new opportunities that may help his business, his industry and his community thrive in the future.”

Master Farmer Keith and Barb Sexton. Keith Sexton of Rockwell City is retired but still keeps his hand in farming with the help of his sons, Brent and Brian. During his farming career, Sexton worked on improving efficiency and growing the operation. Now, most of his land will be farmed by a local family because Sexton wanted to see the control remain in the region. Off the farm, he’s served with 4-H, the Iowa Corn Growers Association and the National Corn Growers Association.

As one letter of support notes: “Keith has been an outstanding leader to work with, as he is extremely detailed and always prepared. His respect of others is evident in his ability to build consensus among his peers to achieve results. Keith’s main goal has always been the long-term success of his fellow farmers and Iowa agriculture.”

Master Farmer Jeff and Jennifer Jorgenson. Jeff Jorgenson of Sidney jokes that he’s retired from the Iowa Soybean Association as a young man, but he actually moved on to the American Soybean Association after a successful career serving the state organization. Since he started farming, Jorgenson has worked to build his farm and his cattle operation.

As one supporter wrote: “Jeff has been a steadfast leader of the Iowa Soybean Association, serving as the organization’s president. ... I worked with Jeff and his team on a variety of policy issues, and always appreciated his insights and expertise. He has been a tireless advocate, not only for soybean growers but for the entire agriculture industry.”