Washington

The Knupp family was honored with the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award for its commitment to agriculture and the community.

The award recognizes Iowa livestock and poultry farmers who demonstrate excellence in environmental stewardship, animal care and community leadership.

It is named in honor of longtime WHO Radio farm broadcaster Gary Wergin, who helped establish the award more than 20 years ago.

Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig presented the award to the Knupp family. Others attending the presentation included Bob Quinn, host of WHO Radio’s The Big Show; state Rep. Heather Hora; and Rochelle Fuller, regional director for U.S. Sen. Chuck Grassley.

The Knupp family’s farming history in Washington County dates back to 1854 and spans six generations.

Marc Knupp and his wife, Mary Ann, operated the farm for many years. Today, the next generation, including Marc’s nephews Tanner and Austin Knupp, runs the operation, while Marc continues to help.

During the presentation, Naig said the Knupp family represents what makes Iowa special.

“You all represent the fabric of this state, the network that shapes its culture and strengthens its communities,” Naig said.

He also praised the family’s approach to raising livestock.

“You have livestock producers who are properly caring for their animals, helping them remain healthy and productive, and that’s a good thing,” he said.

Naig also highlighted the Knupp family’s involvement in schools, FFA, 4-H, commodity organizations and grower groups.

“The list of ways this family is involved is extensive, from schools, FFA and 4-H to commodity organizations and grower groups, where they continue to serve as leaders,” he said.

With a farming legacy spanning more than 170 years, Naig said the Knupp family is not only focused on the present but also on preserving the land for future generations.

“This family is not just thinking about conservation in the last couple of years, but they’re doing it for generations,” he said.

Naig added that both the Knupp family and Washington County have set an example for others across Iowa.

“We know they have been leaders, and Washington County has also served as a model for how this can be done across the state,” he said.

After accepting the award, Marc Knupp thanked those who attended the presentation.

“On behalf of our family, I would first like to thank everyone for coming,” he said. “I personally know the six previous recipients from Washington County, and I don’t feel we measure up to them. However, we are very honored and proud to accept this award. I consider you all friends, and that’s what life is all about.”

Carl Knupp also expressed his appreciation and credited his father with laying the foundation for the family’s farming legacy.

“I’m sure Dad is watching,” Carl said. “He laid the foundation, and we’ve continued building upon it. He always moved at 60 miles per hour while multitasking and diversifying. I’m extremely proud of everyone here.” 

Marc said the family is now preparing to pass the torch to the next generation.

“We’re ready to pass things on to the next generation, including my daughters and three nephews,” he said. “It’s time for the older generation to step aside and let them take over. They will make mistakes, just as I have, but they will learn from them and keep moving forward.”

After six generations of farming in Washington County, the Knupp family is looking forward to continuing its agricultural legacy for years to come.