Generations Strong: Butler Family
Aug 01, 2024
In the heartland of Iowa, the Butler family farm stands as a testament to generational farming and the strength of partnerships with Innovative Ag Services (IAS). This thriving farm, managed by Jeff Butler and his son Beau, has a rich history and a promising future, all while benefiting from the support and services provided by IAS.
The Legacy of the Butler Farm
Jeff Butler returned to the family farm in Eldora, Iowa, in 1998, transitioning from a career at Dekalb to work alongside his father. Initially, the farm included hogs, a cow-calf operation, soybeans, and alfalfa, but it has since shifted to focus solely on grain farming. Jeff reflects on this transition, emphasizing the importance of hands-on work and the value of being outdoors.
“I made the decision to come back to the family farm in 1998. I worked for Dekalb for eight or nine years and as I moved up in the company, the more time I spent in the office and less outside. I missed being outside, working with my hands,” Jeff shares. His connection to the farm is deeply rooted in family tradition and a love for agriculture.
Partnership with Innovative Ag Services
The Butler family’s relationship with IAS has been instrumental in their farming operations. Jeff explains that his father initially used IAS for livestock feed, but Jeff expanded their partnership due to the superior service provided by IAS’s agronomists and managers. “I mainly made the switch to IAS because of the agronomist and manager. They came out to talk to me, and I wasn’t happy with my service from the previous retailer,” he explains.
One of the significant advantages Jeff highlights is the tailored approach IAS takes to soil fertility and crop management. “They use an independent supplier that matches our soil fertility needs to create a prescription for our crops. They were able to save me money using agronomy technology, and they were competitive in their price,” he notes.
Beau Butler, Jeff’s son, echoes his father’s sentiments. After completing two years of college at DMACC, Beau returned to the family farm, eager to contribute to its growth. He appreciates the comprehensive support IAS provides, especially during busy times. “It’s nice to know when they call, they care about us and want to do whatever is best for our family,” Beau says.
Grain Services and Market Navigation
Rob Hines, a grain originator from IAS in Hubbard, Iowa, underscores the importance of staying informed in a constantly changing market. He emphasizes the rewarding experience of building relationships with farmers and the crucial role of grain marketing. “My time at Innovative Ag Services has been a very rewarding experience in building relationships with farmers and really just understanding the relationship between a grain buyer and a farmer,” Rob states. His advice to farmers is to remain informed to make the best grain marketing decisions.
Jeff Butler also values the grain marketing services provided by IAS. He notes that IAS has helped him navigate different contracts and market most of their corn through the Pine Lake Ethanol plant. “For us, it’s convenience; it’s not that far away. They work with you. They’ve made upgrades to the facility, so unloading is faster than it was 15 years ago when it opened,” Jeff explains.
A Bright Future Ahead
The Butler farm is not just a piece of land; it’s a legacy that continues to grow with each generation. Jeff expresses pride in his son Beau’s decision to pursue farming, and the family is committed to expanding their operations to support future generations. “I’m pretty proud of what Dad and my grandpa started years ago, including my son, Beau, and his decision to make farming his career choice,” Jeff shares.
As the Butlers look to the future, they recognize the importance of technology and resource management in modern agriculture. Beau emphasizes this point: “Technology in agriculture allows us to be more efficient and frees up time for other tasks. As the labor shortage continues, I believe technology will become even more crucial to the future of farming.”
The Butler family exemplifies the success that comes from generational farming and strong partnerships with trusted allies, such as Innovative Ag Services. By collaborating, farmers can uphold their rich history while also embracing the advancements of modern agriculture.
Watch for our video coming soon!