ROCK COUNTY, Minn. — The Elbers family has been named the Rock County Farm Family of the Year, recognizing three generations of farming, community involvement and a strong commitment to agriculture.
The family farm is operated by Kurt and Lanette Elbers, with help from their children, Brock, Whitney, Sean and Lanae. The farm was established in 1947 when William Elbers purchased the property. Kurt’s father, Gilbert, later rented the farm while raising his family there, and Kurt purchased the operation in 1989, making it a third-generation family farm.
Today, the Elbers operate a 400-head feeder-finish cattle enterprise and rent out 124 acres of tillable land. They credit their success to teamwork, a strong work ethic and a family-centered approach to farming.
The family’s involvement in agriculture extends beyond the farm. Through 4-H, the Elbers children showed beef cattle, goats and sheep while participating in general projects, experiences that helped prepare them for careers and continued involvement in agriculture, veterinary sciences, animal care and engineering.
The Elbers are also active in the Rock County community. Lanette has worked as a registered nurse at Sanford in Luverne for 33 years and has served as a Sunday school teacher, former youth group leader, 4-H leader and treasurer of the Rock County Farm Bureau. Kurt works as a beef consultant for Chandler Feed and serves as a youth group leader, elder and deacon at ARC Church.
