The purpose of a tree’s root system serves not only to help the tree survive via water, but also as a stable foundation for the growth that’s to come. Education provides a similar benefit to us; it serves as the foundation for our future growth as a person. A root system continues to develop as the tree ages, just how learning can be lifelong. Allowing ourselves to take opportunities that expand our foundation of education is crucial for growth. Ronna and Zach Wagner have taken that opportunity by charge!
Ronna and Zach are first-generation farmers who grew up surrounded by agriculture. They found so much passion in the industry they decided to branch out and start their own operation!
Ronna notes, “Throughout high school, FFA was a really big part of my development in agriculture and leadership skills.” She valued her agriculture education growing up, and it is something her and her husband planned to continue.
Each year the Great Lakes Crop Summit provides producers the opportunity to gain more knowledge on current research, market outputs, and new technology. This year they used GreenStone’s CultivateGrowth Grant to attend, and to make it even more special their daughter joined them!
The Wagner’s operation is over 3,000 acres and primarily row crops with corn, beans, wheat, and hay for cattle. With that farm under their leadership, they split up at the conference and hear from as many of the presenters as they could fit in. Ronna shared, “I really like seeing the new research that people are doing and what people are trying on their operations. It’s nice to see the data and that it’s proven.”
Not only did they learn from the expert presenters, but networking was also an important aspect of the Crop Summit. She says, “It’s like a reunion, everyone gets to catch up and talk about their year in their area and share things that they’re doing.”
“The Great Lakes Crop Summit serves as another opportunity for us to learn and grow,” Ronna concludes. As first-generation farmers, events like these are very beneficial for growing roots in the industry. Ronna and Zach are great examples of building an educational foundation for the future.
GreenStone understands the importance of supporting education for young, beginning, and small farmers like the Wagner’s. We work to provide the educational and financial resources needed to help establish a solid foundation. To apply for a grant, visit our CultivateGrowth Grant page.
