The Dakota County Board of Commissioners hit the road Aug. 6 to recognize local farm families, 4-H youth and the county's 175th anniversary at the Dakota County Fair in Farmington.
Commissioner Mike Slavik, who represents District 1, said the Dakota County Board is one of only three in Minnesota that meet at their county fair. It is an opportunity to honor the county's agricultural roots, he said.
“Being the third-largest county (in Minnesota) with 450,000 residents, we still as a board and as a county value agriculture," Slavik said, adding that it's one of the county's largest industries.
Commissioners honored The Lavender Barnyard owners Marie and Marty Schuhwerck of Farmington as the University of Minnesota Extension Services 2024 Farm Family of the Year. The Schuhwercks established their farm in 2019, developing lavender products they would sell at farmers markets. They have expanded to U-pick, children's activities and other farming strategies.
Two other Dakota County farms were honored.
The Reinardy Family Farm was recognized as the Dakota County Farm Bureau 2024 Century Farm. Jody and John Reinardy, with family, operate their corn and soybean farm in Hampton Township. The farm dates back to 1924.
Fahey Farms of Rosemount was named the Dakota County Farm Bureau 2024 Sesquicentennial Farm. Tom Fahey and his family grow corn, soybeans and other crops on a farm started in 1874.
In addition to recognizing local farmers, the board invited local 4-H youths to show their projects and animals. Dakota County has the largest 4-H program among Minnesota counties.
This year marks Dakota County's 175th anniversary. The board acknowledged the milestone with a proclamation highlighting county history and county government's role in providing services to residents. The Dakota County Government Building at the fairgrounds includes an exhibit and trivia about the 175th anniversary.
The Dakota County Fair runs through Sunday, Aug. 11.