David and Sandy Knutson recognized as a 2020 ‘U of M Farm Family’
Tue, 07/14/2020 - 11:29am
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The Knutson family of Clearbrook has been named Clearwater County’s “2020 Farm Family of the Year” by the University of Minnesota.
After graduating from school David worked for a few years pipe lining and as a carpenter. In 1981, he decided to enter farming full-time. He raised Hereford and Charolais cattle and began crossbreeding them. David started to expand his beef operation when he purchased a Simmental bull and a purebred Simmental heifer. As the beef herd expanded, the Knutsons kept the heifers and eventually calved out over 100 head.
Over time, David purchased more land and built new sheds. He then started buying Red Angus bulls and built up a solid Red Angus commercial herd. Recently, David has been selling cows to two of his grandsons, who now have a herd of over 60 cows.
Sandy has three children and several grandchildren and great-grandchildren. They are members of Good Shepherd Church in Clearbrook. Sandy was a 4-H leader when the children were active in 4-H. She worked at the nursing home in Clearbrook for 15 years. Sandy retired five years ago after working as treasurer for Leon Township for 35 years.
Though COVID-19 has forced cancellation of the annual Minnesota Farmfest, where the awards are presented each August, this year’s honorees will be celebrated in an online video tribute. The recognition, lead by University of Minnesota President Joan Gabel, will be available at 1 p.m., Aug. 6 at mnfarmfamilies.cfans.umn.edu.
Honored families are chosen, one per county, by local University of Minnesota Extension committees based on their demonstrated commitment to their communities and to enhancing and supporting agriculture.
“We’ll miss the face-to-face ceremony for the 2020 Farm Families of the Year, but nothing diminishes pride we take in celebrating their accomplishments,” said Extension Dean Bev Durgan. “These families represent the best in agriculture. They’re innovative and dedicated to their communities; they are stewards of the land.”
The Farm Family Recognition Program has existed for over 30 years and honors farm families from throughout Minnesota for their contributions to the agriculture industry and their local communities. All of the honored farm families have made significant contributions to Minnesota agriculture and their communities.