A rural Le Mars couple was recognized at the Iowa State Fair as 2024 Iowa Farm Environmental Leaders.
Tony and Shirley Schroeder were among 44 recipients of the award this year. It was presented by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and the state DNR. Tony has been a Soil and Water Conservation District Commissioner, and also serves on the Plymouth County Fair Board. Shirley is board president of the Siouxland Ag in the Classroom organization and has been a 4-H and FFA leader.
The Schroeders have operated their farm for over 68 years, and farm with their four sons. Their farming operation includes over 85-thousand acres of terraces, grassed waterways, windbreaks, and tree plantings, all without cost share assistance. They no-till their corn and soybean acreage.
Governor Kim Reynolds, Lt. Governor Adam Gregg, Ag Secretary Mike Naig, and DNR Director Kayla Lyon presented the award.
