The Evolution of the Heartland event brought a unique agritourism experience to Coon Rapids, Iowa, offering attendees an immersive, behind-the-scenes look at the future of agriculture. With nearly 75 people involved – including attendees, Coon Rapids and Carroll-area FFA members, event staff, sponsors, tour hosts, and special guests including Debi Durham, Director of the Iowa Economic Development Authority and Iowa Finance Authority, and Matt Russell, State Executive Director USDA-Iowa Farm Service Agency – this day was filled with education, innovation, and discovery.

The event began with two immersive morning tours, ‘Fueling the Future Tour’ and ‘Behind the Bushel.’ Participants visited POET Bioprocessing to explore biofuel innovations, learning how corn is transformed into clean-burning energy and the importance of utilizing the energy cultivated right here in Iowa cornfields. Attendees also toured Roger Clayburg’s Beck’s Hybrids test plot and as well as the Beck’s packaging facility, witnessing cutting-edge seed selection, cleaning, treating, and packaging techniques that are helping to shape the future of farming.

After the morning tours, attendees gathered for lunch at the Raccoon River Social Club, catered by Cabbage Rose, enjoying a traditional Iowa meal featuring pan-fried chicken, roast beef, mashed potatoes, green beans, dinner rolls, fruit crisp, and ice cream.

Debi Durham, the Director of Iowa Economic Development Authority, spoke about the vast opportunities in rural Iowa. “It’s an exciting time for rural Iowa as we harness the strength of our agricultural innovation and expand economic development opportunities,” Durham remarked. Attendees also had the chance to explore local downtown businesses, connecting with the Coon Rapids community entrepreneurs.

During the afternoon, participants enjoyed two more immersive tours including ‘Sustainable Agriculture’ and ‘Beyond the Barnyard.’ A visit to Whiterock Conservancy showcased how this historical family farm transformed into an eco-friendly tourism destination, demonstrating how sustainability drives modern farming and provides connections to the past.

Participants also experienced firsthand the entrepreneurial spirit and superior genetics in the livestock industry, visiting a co-owned swine operation run by Roger and Jeanna Clayburg and Kyler and Emily Oswald, as well as the high-quality Tarentaise beef operation at HatRanch with the Honold family. Emily Oswald, a swine farmer who grew up in Chicago, was excited to meet attendees and shared, “Growing up, I never really thought about where my food came from. Now, I not only know where most of my food comes from, but I also understand the many uses for a pig and all that goes into raising it.”

To wrap up the day, attendees toured the Coon Rapids-Bayard FFA Hydroponic Greenhouse, where they saw how the next generation is embracing high-tech farming methods. Matt Russell, State Executive Director of USDA-Iowa Farm Service Agency, delivered a short closing speech on Iowa’s leadership in sustainable agriculture. Russell stated, “It’s inspiring to see how innovative farming techniques are shaping the future of agriculture in rural Iowa, ensuring sustainability for generations to come.”

Looking Ahead for Evolution of the Heartland
“We believe that Evolution of the Heartland will continue to serve as a platform for showcasing rural Iowa’s message of innovation and sustainability in agriculture,” said Shelly Greving, owner of Emerge Marketing Solutions and creator of Evolution of the Heartland. “It’s an opportunity to spotlight not only the production of wholesome, nutritious food but also the dedication of Iowa’s farm families to their land.”

For more information on Evolution of the Heartland, visit www.evolutionoftheheartland.com.

Opportunities for 2025 sponsors and community hosts are now being pursued. For more information, please contact Annie Greve at info@evolutionoftheheartland.com. Stay updated by following Evolution of the Heartland on Facebook and Instagram @evolutionoftheheartland.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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