Martelle family receives 'master farmer' award

     The Shawn and Valerie Lambertsen family of Martelle was one of four Iowa farm families from across the state named “Iowa Master Farmers” by Wallaces Farmer magazine and the Iowa Master Farmer Association on March 22 in Ankeny.

     The other three winners include Steve and Julie Berger of Wellman, Jeff and Christy Hibbs of Albion, and Gordon Wassenaar of Prairie City. They join more than 460 Iowa farm families recognized since 1926.

     In addition, retired Iowa State University Extension agricultural engineer Mark Hanna received an Exceptional Service award for his long-time exemplary work with farmers. Hanna retired in October 2017 after 42 years at Iowa State. Hanna’s research and extension efforts were related to tillage, planting and nutrient management.

     Henry A. Wallace, editor of Wallaces Farmer from 1921 to 1933, initiated the Iowa Master Farmer Award in 1926 to call attention to farmers who not only demonstrate outstanding management of their farming operations, but also provide community service and leadership in local, state, and national organizations.  The award is the longest-running farmer recognition program in the country.

     “When Wallaces Farmer began the Iowa Master Farmer Award in 1926, it made perfect sense to use the magazine’s motto – “Good Farming, Clear Thinking, Right Living” – as the basis for judging the nominations,” commented Rod Swoboda, Editor. “This guideline requires that award winners not only skillfully manage their farms and market their products, but also invest time and resources in their families and communities.”

     Anyone can nominate a Master Farmer. Deadline for the 2019 awards is Oct. 1, 2018. Forms are available at WallacesFarmer.com or by contacting the publication at 515-505-1540 or Wallaces Farmer, 6200 Aurora Ave., Suite 203E, Urbandale, IA 50322.