Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig will present the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award to the Eickman family of Carroll County on March 27, as part of Iowa Agriculture Week. The ceremony will take place at the Warren Timmerman Shelter House in Manning and recognizes farm families who show strong stewardship, responsible livestock care, and community leadership.
The award highlights the importance of conservation and good agricultural practices among Iowa’s farming families. The Eickmans are being honored for their commitment to land stewardship, animal care, and support for local youth and organizations.
Naig said, “Iowa farmers take great pride in caring for their livestock, protecting our natural resources, and giving back to their communities. The Eickman family demonstrates what it means to be good stewards of the land and responsible livestock producers, while also investing their time to support their community, mentor the next generation, and help young people build practical workforce skills. I am pleased to recognize the Eickman family and present them with the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award.”
Glen and Donna Eickman operate Eickman Family Farms with sons Tony and Scott near Manning. Maury Eickman remains involved as a landowner. They raise corn, soybeans, and manage a farrow-to-finish hog operation alongside several part-time employees. Conservation is a priority; they use minimum tillage methods, filter strips, terraces, cover crops planted over eight years ago, as well as a manure management plan that uses livestock manure responsibly as fertilizer.
Animal welfare is central to their operations through automated barn systems and detailed health records following Pork Quality Assurance (PQA) standards. Members participate in groups like the Iowa Pork Producers Association. Tony serves on local boards supporting youth skill development through projects such as welding workshops for 4-H members; Scott volunteers with emergency services; Glen is vice president of a cooperative board.
The Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award is made possible by partnerships between organizations including WHO Radio’s The Big Show. Now in its 22nd year, it honors those who excel at animal care while being active neighbors.
The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship provides financial support through no-interest loans or grants for conservation practices according to its official website. It also works across rural areas promoting social growth by strengthening communities alongside economic benefits according to its official website. The department aims to champion farmers while safeguarding consumers’ interests—offering programs that enhance water quality through efforts like the Iowa Nutrient Reduction Strategy according to its official website.
Iowa leads nationally in pork production along with corn and egg output as reported by its agriculture department. Through various partnerships statewide—including funding environmental practices—the department continues shaping policy that supports both agriculture sector strength and resource protection.
