Stan and Martha Nelson of Des Moines County have been recognized with the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award.
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig presented the award to the Nelsons during a ceremony July 9, 2026, at their family farm near Danville.
The Nelson family has farmed the land, known as Metairie, since 1894. The operation includes corn and soybean production, and over the years has included cattle, seed crops, popcorn, alfalfa, hay and wheat.
The Nelsons were recognized for their commitment to conservation and stewardship. Their farm uses practices including no-till farming, terraces, grassed waterways, buffer strips and cover crops.
The family has also participated in agricultural research and conservation demonstrations for decades. Their conservation leadership was recognized with the Iowa Farm Environmental Leadership Award in 2024.
In addition to their work on the farm, the Nelsons have been active in their church and community, and Stan has held leadership positions with several Iowa and national agricultural organizations.
Secretary Naig said the Nelsons have earned the respect of their neighbors through decades of hard work, integrity and service, and praised their commitment to responsible farming and environmental stewardship.
The Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award recognizes Iowa livestock farmers who care for the environment and their livestock while also being good neighbors and community leaders.