About Dave
I was raised on a family farm in northwestern Minnesota, where we milked cows, raised cattle, and grew crops. My great‑grandparents started the farm, and it was recognized as a Minnesota Century Farm in 2017. I worked my way through North Dakota State University, earning degrees in Agricultural Education and Animal Science, before starting my career as an Agriculture Teacher in Halstad, MN where I met my wife, Teri.
In 1988, we made Le Sueur County our home when I became the County Agriculture Extension Agent. Since then, I’ve dedicated my career to serving rural communities—both locally and across Minnesota.
Teri has dedicated her career to education, serving as Superintendent of Tri-City United Schools and continuing her work supporting schools across Minnesota. We raised our two sons Ethan and Cody here and family is at the heart of everything we do. Whether it’s time on the water, being outdoors, cheering on local football teams, grilling, or being with our grandkids, we’re proud to call this community home.
For 28 years, I served as Executive Director of the Minnesota Pork Producers Association, where I worked at the state and national level to support agriculture and successfully advocated for reducing agricultural property taxes.
Career of Service & Action for Rural Minnesota
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Le Sueur County Ag Extension Agent
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Le Sueur County Planning and Zoning Commission
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MN Pork Producers Association Executive Director
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Le Sueur County Commissioner District 4
Recognitions
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Minnesota AgriGrowth Distinguished Service Award for "unique service and significant contributions to strengthening food systems and agriculture in Minnesota."
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Friend of Agriculture Award, Minnesota Association of Extension Agricultural Professionals
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Minnesota Honorary State FFA Degree
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Selected for Paulson-Whitmore State Executive Award by National Pork Producers Council (NPPC) and National Pork Board exceptional leadership and commitment to advancing the pork industry
It takes long term relationship building and credibility to be heard at levels where decisions are made that impact rural Minnesota.
I believe in listening, working together, and standing up for rural communities through responsible leadership, sound fiscal accountability, protecting natural resources, public safety, and support for agriculture and thriving local businesses.
Strong rural economies mean a stronger Minnesota.
