Honoring a local farm family

Agriculture remains South Dakota’s number one industry. That’s largely due to the incredible perseverance of the people raising the crops and tending the livestock.

The South Dakota Farmers Union recently highlighted the Martinmaas family of Orient, South Dakota. The family has a long tradition of farming and raising cattle in the area. Bill and Wanelda Martinmaas raised 12 children on their family farm, established in 1949.

Their sons continue to farm in the area, operating two, drug-free cow/calf herds. To keep up with the changing industry, they’ve established a unique partnership. Each owns separate land to raise crops and/or livestock. The brothers share equipment and labor expenses.

Find out more about this hardworking local family.