Feikema Farms, Inc. in Luverne, Minn., was recognized today by the National Cattlemen’s Beef Association (NCBA) as a 2026 Environmental Stewardship Award Program (ESAP) Regional winner.
Established in 1991, ESAP celebrates outstanding land stewards in the cattle industry. The national winner, which will be selected from these seven regional winners, will be announced during CattleCon 2027 in Nashville, Tennessee, in February.
“These award recipients undertake stewardship efforts unique to their environment, landscape and resources, and they share their learnings with fellow producers,” said NCBA President Gene Copenhaver. “Their dedication to conserving natural resources is ensuring a bright future for the next generation.”
The 2026 Environmental Stewardship Award Program Regional winners are:
Region I: LB Porteus Farms, Coshocton, Ohio
Region II: Donaldson Farms/D&D Meats, Celina, Tennessee
Region III: Feikema Farms, Inc., Luverne, Minnesota
Region IV: Bloody Buckets Cattle Company, Falfurrias, Texas
Region V: V Box Land and Livestock, Juntura, Oregon
Region VI: Munns Flying M Ranch, Snowville, Utah
Region VII: Stomprud Angus Ranch, Mud Butte, South Dakota
“Feikema Farms stands as a model of responsible and forward-thinking land management,” said USDA-NRCS District Conservationist Dylan J. Bartels. “Their use of advanced techniques including crop rotation, cover crops, and strip-tillage has significantly improved soil health and reduced erosion, ensuring the land will continue to thrive for future generations.”
Feikema Farms started in 1950 as a small dairy and crop farm that then transitioned to a beef feedyard when brothers Bob and Chuck returned home after finishing their military assignments. Now, the third generation of farmers, Shawn and Mike, are managing the 4,000-head capacity feedlot. A devastating flood in 2014 was a turning point as the aftermath left impacts of runoff and erosion.
Over the years, the Feikemas implemented basins and tiling to protect waterways and keep their fields from washing out, as well as implementing strip-till and no-till practices. They also began composting manure and utilizing a large stacking pad for manure as well. Today, their business focuses on targeted, steady growth, top yields through excellent crop management, exceptional animal husbandry, land stewardship practices that build fertility and reduce erosion, and building long-term working relationships with partners.
“We strive for excellence in production, management and stewardship through the wise use of our resources,” said Shawn Feikema. “Our goal is to make a positive impact on our families, our employees and our community, treating everyone with fairness and respect.”
ESAP is generously sponsored by organizations that share the cattle industry’s commitment to caring for the environment and protecting natural resources. Sponsors including Corteva Agriscience and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service partner with NCBA to promote environmental stewardship throughout the beef supply chain. For more information, visit www.environmentalstewardship.org.
