
The Iowa Secretary of Agriculture, Mike Naig, presented the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award to Center Point family, Matt and Melissa Ditch, during the annual Iowa Pork Congress on Jan. 22 in Des Moines.
The Ditch family, which includes children AJ, 14, Victoria, 13, and Joshua, 11, has farmed in rural Linn County since 1958. Alongside Mr. Ditch’s parents, Ken and Becky, they operate a farm focused on livestock and crop production. Over the decades, the family has rebuilt and adapted their operation, particularly after a tornado in the 1970s destroyed much of their property.
“The Ditch Family combines excellent care for their livestock with a deep appreciation for their land. They are always looking for ways to enhance soil health and protect water quality while responsibly raising pigs and cattle,” Mr. Naig said, in a release. “Beyond their farm, they embody a true spirit of service by actively contributing to their community and by serving in numerous leadership capacities. The Ditch family is a terrific example of the wonderful pork producer families we have across Iowa, and it is fitting that we present them with the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award at the annual Iowa Pork Congress.”
Today, the farm enterprise includes cattle, pigs, and crop production. After shifting away from farrow-to-finish pork production in 1996, the Ditches began feeding weaned pigs for another farmer. They work closely with a herd veterinarian and implement animal care practices that include certifications in Pork Quality Assurance and Transportation Quality Assurance. The farm uses technology such as a mist system to mitigate odors and ensure optimal water quality for livestock health.
The Ditch farm cultivates corn, soybeans, alfalfa, and hay across its acreage. Committed to sustainable practices, the farm employs crop rotation and no-till methods to combat soil erosion. Since 2016, cereal rye cover crops have played a key role in preserving soil integrity and enhancing water quality.
In addition, the farm has constructed and maintained grassed waterways to manage runoff and reduce erosion. Manure application is carefully timed for fall, once ground temperatures drop below 50 degrees, to maximize efficiency and minimize environmental impact. Nitrogen inhibitors are used as needed, and a rate controller paired with GPS technology ensures precise manure application.
For nutrient incorporation, the Ditch Farm uses a VTI Coulter Toolbar, which integrates nutrients into the soil with minimal disturbance, further demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and responsible farming practices.
The Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award, now in its 21st year, honors Iowa farmers for their environmental stewardship, livestock care, and community engagement. Named for the late Gary Wergin, a WHO Radio farm broadcaster, the award is sponsored by the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers, WHO Radio’s “The Big Show,” and the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship.
Visit here to learn more about the Ditch Family, including their commitment to the community and industry.