Wayne started farming at the age of 6 and only slowed down briefly to get his degree in Diesel Mechanics at Lake Area Technical School in Watertown, S.D., Class of 1972. Shortly thereafter he returned to help run the family farm, 3 generations deep, increasing the business along the way. Training through good old fashioned hard work, Wayne eventually took over the business and continues to manage it with his 3 of his 5 brothers. The farm continues to be family run with the fourth generation in training by the wise “old-timers”.
Though mostly focused on a large herd of beef cattle, Wayne’s farm of about 5500 acres houses a few dozen dairy cows. His operation also grows and prepares all the feed on site.
Happily married with 2 grown children Wayne says that, “farming is the best life on earth, but it is also the most hectic.” Feeling the growing disconnect between society and the farming industry Wayne hopes that people won’t judge farmers based on what the media tells them, but recommends that they schedule a trip with a local farmer and see what really goes on. As in all industries, one bad apple can ruin the whole bunch but in reality, most farmers are part of the good bunch!
Despite the long hours and the luxury of vacation days being few and far between, Wayne enjoys hunting, fishing, and horseback riding. His deep respect for nature can easily be seen in his incredible pictures of the South Dakota wildlife and landscapes. Both Wayne and his wife have captured amazing shots in all four seasons that professional photographers would die for.
Wayne’s insight on the challenges and privileges of living the cattle farming life can be heard on The AdPhantom Show Episode 8: “Got Milk? Where’s the Beef?”
