Iowa Family Honored with Good Farm Neighbor Award
On a crisp February day in Pisgah, Iowa, the community gathered at the local United Methodist Church to witness a heartwarming event. Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig presented the prestigious Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award to the Sherer family of Harrison County. The award, named in memory of the late farm broadcaster Gary Wergin, recognizes livestock farmers who not only excel in caring for their animals and the environment but also go above and beyond to be good neighbors.
The Sherer family, consisting of Jason and Jami Sherer and their daughters Sydney and Brylee, owns and operates Cobb Hollow Farm. Established in 2018, the farm became part of the Lincoln Premium Poultry (LPP) grower network following an expanded partnership with Costco to enhance poultry production in the region. The Sherers play a crucial role in the process, raising breeder flocks that produce eggs to be hatched at a local hatchery. Once hatched, the chicks are raised by nearby farmers until they reach market weight, ultimately becoming the beloved rotisserie chickens sold at Costco.
Secretary Naig commended the Sherers for their commitment to excellence, highlighting their dedication to animal welfare, sustainable farming practices, and community engagement. Beyond their farming endeavors, the Sherers are actively involved in various local organizations, demonstrating their passion for making a positive impact in their community.
Commitment to Excellence and Community Involvement
At the heart of Cobb Hollow Farm lies a deep-rooted commitment to exceptional animal care and environmental stewardship. The Sherers’ efforts have not gone unnoticed, as evidenced by the numerous accolades they have received, including LPP’s Top Breeder award in 2023. This recognition reflects the farm’s achievements in animal care, environmental sustainability, and biosecurity measures.
With the help of dedicated farm managers and employees, Cobb Hollow Farm has expanded its operations to include a second location for poultry production. Alongside their poultry endeavors, the Sherers manage commercial cow/calf and Scottish Highland herds, as well as cultivate various crops on their land. Their innovative approach to farming, which includes modern barns equipped with cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices such as no-till farming and cover cropping, sets them apart as industry leaders.
In addition to their agricultural pursuits, the Sherers are deeply involved in their community. Jami serves as a teacher in the local school district, while Jason’s extensive background in healthcare and community service positions him as a respected leader in various organizations. Their ongoing commitment to giving back was exemplified in their response to a neighbor’s plight following a natural disaster, where they rallied the community together to provide support and assistance.
Legacy of Excellence and Neighborly Spirit
As recipients of the Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award, the Sherer family embodies the values of hard work, dedication, and compassion that define Iowa’s agricultural community. Through their unwavering commitment to excellence in farming practices and their deep-rooted ties to the community, the Sherers serve as a shining example of what it means to be good neighbors and stewards of the land.
The Wergin Good Farm Neighbor Award, now in its 21st year, stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Gary Wergin and his vision of honoring farmers who exemplify the best of Iowa’s agricultural traditions. Through partnerships with organizations like the Coalition to Support Iowa’s Farmers and WHO Radio, the award celebrates the vital role that livestock farmers play in preserving the environment, caring for their livestock, and fostering strong community connections.
In conclusion, the Sherer family’s story serves as a reminder of the profound impact that individual farmers can have on their communities and the agricultural industry as a whole. Their dedication to excellence, sustainability, and community engagement sets them apart as true ambassadors of Iowa’s farming heritage. As we celebrate their achievements and honor their contributions, let us take inspiration from their example and strive to uphold the values of good stewardship and neighborly spirit in all that we do.
