REDWOOD COUNTY, Minn. — The Brozek family has been named the Redwood County Farm Family of the Year in recognition of more than a century of agricultural tradition and community involvement.
Nick and Katherine Brozek are the fifth generation to operate the family farm, which was established in 1901 by Katherine’s great-great-grandfather, Carl Zuehlsdorf. The farm transitioned through generations, with Katherine’s grandfather, Otmar Pless, taking over in 1949 during the shift from horses to tractors, followed by her father, Darwin Pless, in 1976.
Darwin founded Hilltop Harvest in 2000, transforming the operation from livestock production to specialty crops with a focus on strawberries. Nick and Katherine, who married in 2004, assumed management of the farm in 2017 while raising their two children, Eloise and Preston. Family members from both sides continue to help during the busy berry season.
Today, the Brozeks farm about 10 acres and continue their popular pick-your-own strawberry operation each June, attracting visitors from across southern Minnesota. The farm also features a seasonal food truck serving waffles and ice cream sundaes topped with fresh strawberries. In recent years, the family has expanded into specialty cut flowers, particularly dahlias, along with pick-your-own bouquet experiences. During the fall, they grow pumpkins for local grocery stores, florists, orchards and fall festivals.
The Brozek family is also active in the community. Nick serves in church leadership and on the Redwood Area Library Foundation board. Katherine has volunteered with Rotary, the Redwood Area Chamber Ag Committee, local organizations and their church. Their daughter, Eloise, participates in tennis, softball, robotics and the National Honor Society, while their son, Preston, is active in cross-country and scouting.
