Spadgenske Dairy, Mark and Kristine, and Mike and Jean of rural Menahga received the Red River Valley Outstanding Farm Leaders Award for Becker County at the County Fair’s Agriculture Awards program on Saturday, Aug. 1.  

The Spadgenske’s are one of 16 families from the 14 counties along the Red River Valley to receive this award. The award is based on their impact on the farming industry, their service to their community, and how they have lived and worked to enhance the quality of life in northwest Minnesota.  

This is an annual award given by the Red River Valley Development Association since 1939. In 1994, the Spadgenskes began dairy farming with 60 cows in a rented barn eight miles west of Menahga. Today, they milk 350 cows and farm 1,200 acres raising corn and hay. Good cows, strong milk production and raising quality hay and feed is a hallmark of their operation.  

Mark and Kristine have four children: Ryan (Jen), Kate (Benny) Minton, Adam and Seth. Mike and Jean have one son, John. The Spadgenskes are involved in community, church and dairy industry activities. Mark and Kristine are especially involved in township governance and County American Dairy Association Leadership.  

It was noted at the award presentation that no Becker County Dairy Farmer has been as involved in supporting the Dairy Industry as Kristine, as she holds national positions in Dairy promotion and governance. The Spadgenskes are all active in Relayt Church in Menahga.