Eric Haugen, of the Montevideo FFA Chapter, is this year’s recipient of the Minnesota Farm Service Agency Youth Agri-Business Award.  In 2005, Eric first started working with USDA Farm Service Agency staff at the Lac Qui Parle FSA Service Center.  Eric’s goal was to expand his Red Angus Beef operation.  He knew from an early age, through his involvement in both 4-H and FFA, he intended on pursuing this type of operation for both his SAE and his career.

His project began when we leased two Red Angus heifers form Gary Sonstegard, at the River Ranch in Montevideo, MN.  In 2005, Eric applied for his first USDA FSA rural youth loan.  The proceeds of this loan were used to purchase two Red Angus heifers.  In 2008, he applied for another loan to purchase more heifers and to finance operating costs for crop production.  Eric and his Dad partner in the farming operation to grow wheat, corn, and soybeans.  Over the past few year, Eric’s herd has thrived, and in 2009, it was up to 22 cows, bred heifers, and calves.  He is also faming 14.5 acres of corn, 23.5 acres of soybeans, and 7.2 acres of wheat. 

This project has helped Eric developed his management skills, marketing skills, and knowledge of production agriculture.  Eric has shown that his achievements have grown, like his knowledge, over time.  Throughout the lending process, Eric worked closely with the Swift County FSA Credit Team.  At first, Eric was nervous.  He had a lot to learn about the application and loan process.  But he found that FSA staff served as a both advisors and a mentors, as they helped him understand the application, how to complete and use a balance sheet, and the financial responsibilities of having a loan.  Eric said that he learned a lot about money management, keeping track of income and expenses, and accounting practices. 

Eric now attends Ridgewater College in Willmar, MN.  He is pursuing a degree in Farm Management and Operations.  He is the son of Steve and Carmen Haugen, and is advised by Brian Albers or the Montevideo FFA Chapter.