Dubuque County Farm Family Honored with Award

A Dubuque County farm family received a special honor on Friday.

Iowa Deputy Secretary of Agriculture Grant Menke presented the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award on behalf of Iowa Ag Secretary Mike Naig to the McGuire family.

The award recognizes Iowa livestock farmers who take pride in caring for the environment, their livestock and being good neighbors in their communities.

Matt and Kayla McGuire own and operate McGuire Charolais, a cow-calf operation near Bernard. Established in 2015, the operation is located on the historic Driscoll Farm, which was originally homesteaded in 1853 and is approaching 175 years of agricultural history. Matt’s parents, John and Katie McGuire, remain actively involved with the farm, while Matt and Kayla’s young son is already helping care for the cattle.

The McGuires raise Charolais cattle and produce grass hay while continually evaluating new ideas that strengthen both their operation and the natural resources entrusted to their care. They began planting rye cover crops in 2019, allowing cattle to graze the fields after silage harvest, and utilize rotational grazing to improve pasture health and soil quality. Matt is also exploring new approaches to soil health, including bioreactors and aerobic composting techniques that can further improve soil health and water quality.

In addition to the farm, Matt and his brother Brendan operate a lumber mill that has earned a reputation for helping local landowners make the most of every tree they harvest. The brothers mill, dry and plane rough-sawn lumber, helping local landowners make use of trees that might otherwise be overlooked while providing materials for projects throughout the community. Kayla also operates a seasonal cut flower business, creating locally grown floral arrangements during the summer months.

Matt is also a firefighter and EMT with Bernard Fire and Rescue and volunteers as an auctioneer for fundraising events benefiting local nonprofit organizations, including three Catholic churches. 

Ag Secretary Mike Naig says successful farmers never stop looking for new opportunities to strengthen their operation. Naig says the McGuires have found creative ways to build on their farming enterprise while remaining committed to environmental stewardship and their community.

The McGuires were presented with the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award during an open house on Friday at St. Patrick’s Garryowen Church near Bernard. 

photo courtesy of IDALS