The Pesch family of Pelican Rapids has been named Otter Tail County’s “2025 Farm Family of the Year” by the University of Minnesota.

Ryan and Maree Pesch did not come from farming backgrounds. Their inspiration began when Ryan found the organic food movement in college. After two years apprenticing at Foxtail Farm near Osceola, Wis., they struck out on their own as tenant farmers in Lake Elmo, selling produce at the Northeast Minneapolis Farmers Market. In 2004, they launched Lida Farm with just a half-acre in production. By 2014, they were growing vegetables on seven acres while raising three kids.

Today, Lida Farm is a 20-acre operation focused on high-quality, sustainably grown vegetables.

The Pesch family grows over 100 varieties on three acres and two high tunnels, with another three acres in cover crops. They use only natural and certifiably organic inputs across a mix of traditionally cultivated fields and biointensive permanent beds. Their produce goes directly to customers through a CSA, farmers markets, a roadside stand and wholesale accounts.

Their kids all play a part in the operation. Sylvia, now studying at the University of Minnesota-Morris, put in many hours weeding and planting during her teenage years. Willem handles the farm’s building projects. Graham is just beginning to help out this summer.

Ryan and Maree are active in local food and farming organizations, from the Minnesota Farmers Union to the Lake Agassiz Sustainable Farming chapter. Ryan, who is an educator for University of Minnesota Extension, helped start the Pelican Market in downtown Pelican Rapids and serves as treasurer of Manna Food Co-op, where Maree manages daily operations as general manager.

The families were officially recognized in a ceremony Thursday, Aug. 7 at the annual Farmfest near Redwood Falls. Profiles of the 2025 honorees are featured at www.extension.umn.edu/farm-families.

Honored families are chosen, one per county, by local University of Minnesota Extension committees based on their demonstrated commitment to their communities and to enhancing and supporting agriculture. Honorees cover a wide spectrum of farming, from traditional crops and livestock to community-based ventures and operations producing an array of fruit, vegetables, and flowers.

“This year’s 86 Farm Families of the Year reflect the breadth and variety of agriculture in our state,” said Extension Dean Bev Burgan. “The University of Minnesota is proud to honor these families and their innovation and dedication to Minnesota agriculture.”

Along with Farmfest, the program is sponsored by three University of Minnesota units focusing on agricultural research, education and outreach – University of Minnesota Extension, the College of Food, Agricultural and Natural Resource Sciences and the College of Veterinary Medicine.

Farmfest was held from Aug. 5-7 at the Gilfillan Estate, near Redwood Falls.