University of Minnesota recognizes the Farm Families of the Year

The University of Minnesota will honor families and growers from across the state  this week at the annual Minnesota Farmfest near Redwood Falls. The 2026 Farm Family of the Year ceremony will be held Thursday, Aug. 6, at 1:15 p.m. on the Gilfillan Estate in the Wick Buildings Farmfest Center.

Collectively, the 86 selected families cover a wide spectrum of farming, from traditional crops and livestock to community-based ventures and operations producing an array of fruit, vegetables and flowers. 

“This year's Farm Families of the Year reflect the impressive strength — and incredible variety — of agriculture in our state," says Extension dean Bev Durgan. "The University of Minnesota is proud to honor these families and their innovation and dedication to Minnesota agriculture." 

Below is a sampling of three families and their stories. All the 2026 families are featured at 2026 Farm Families of the Year. 

Cook County | Duhaime Family

The Duhaime Family Farm began as a gardening venture at a local community garden — and at home. Each year, the home garden grew until the Duhaimes began selling produce to restaurants such as Angry Trout Cafe in Grand Marais. Andrew, his wife Marideth, and their children Adeline, Kate, Miles and Ridge all contribute to the operation. 

The home garden has grown to 25 raised beds that produce spring mix lettuces and tomatoes. Andrew also operates a food truck called Timber Wagon, using his homegrown vegetables. Expansion plans include developing hoop houses and more raised beds on additional land.

Andrew serves on the Food Sovereignty Committee in Grand Portage, which engages with the community by holding events and providing support. The Dunhaimes donate produce to community members. In addition, Andrew provides support to the community garden program, including working in the deep winter greenhouse and cutting wood for gardening infrastructure such as garden beds and building materials.

Douglas County | Heald Family 

Country Blossom Farm began when Troy and Tracy Heald, along with their children, started out on a journey to grow apples in 2009. They took a leap of faith and purchased 66 acres with no real farming background. The whole family worked hard to plant 6,000 apple trees, and sold produce and berries at farmers markets while waiting for the apple trees to produce fruit. 

In 2015, the Healds opened the doors of their retail market and bakery to the public, offering apples, fall activities, donuts and homemade pies. Today, the farm includes 8,500 apple trees, 5 acres of berries, a half acre of rhubarb and three high tunnels for raspberry production.

The Healds are also engaged in their community. Troy serves as the vice president of the Minnesota Apple Growers Association and has been on the board of directors since 2020. They are members of the Alexandria Chamber of Commerce, and they work to source ingredients and materials for their operation locally. The family donates food to local food shelves and schools, and makes product and certificate donations for charity fundraisers. They are also advocates for farm-to-school programs in Minnesota and North Dakota.

Renville County | Wertish Family 

The Wertish family farm began in 1945 when John and Dorothy Wertish purchased their farm in Emmet Township. Their son, Gary, along with his brothers, Richard and Doug, grew up helping on the diversified grain and livestock operation.

Today, Gary and Jeanne Wertish’s son, Tom, and daughter-in-law, Jessica, own and operate the fifth-generation farm with the help of their children, Annabelle, Jack and Kalleigh. The family raises corn and soybeans, along with a few hogs and cattle for family and friends.

Gary serves as president of the Minnesota Farmers Union, advocating for family farmers and rural communities. In that role, he has been a strong supporter of 4-H and FFA programs. He has also served as an Emmet Township supervisor for more than 30 years and on the Renville Ambulance Board for 12 years. The family has a long history of involvement in 4-H and FFA, serving as officers and participating in competitions and programs.

If you go…

If you’re attending FarmFest, be sure to visit with University of Minnesota educators, researchers and staff.
 

• Booth 615S: Staff from Extension, the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences and others will share programming and resources for farmers, as well as specific crop diagnostics and hands-on activities for kids.
• Booth 326: The Upper Midwest Agricultural Safety and Health Center will offer activities, including a Polaris/4-H ATV exhibit.
• Booth SR11: West Central Research and Outreach Center staff and researchers will share the latest in University of Minnesota agricultural research, education and innovation.