2011 Professional Farm Manager of the Year

Geneseo resident Ed Kiefer, vice president and office manager for Hertz Farm Management, Inc., was recently named 2011 Professional Farm Manager of the Year by Syngenta, AgProfessional magazine and the American Society of Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers (ASFMRA).

"Ed is a tremendous asset for our company," said Loyd Brown, president, Hertz Farm Management, Inc. "One of the foundations of Ed's success is he is very sincere and personable and is always doing things in the best interest of his clients. He has gained a lot of respect from his clients, farm operators and his co-workers."

Currently in his 36th year of providing professional farm management services, real estate sales and acquisitions and agricultural consulting for landowners across Illinois, Kiefer says receiving his industry's top honor validates his commitment to his clients and dedication to soil and water conservation.

"As we move forward and have to grow more with less, farm managers will continue to lead with technology, with genetics and in land stewardship," said Brent Rockers, district manager, Syngenta. "These factors are all important to the future of agriculture and Syngenta would like to recognize farm managers like Ed as leading that role in years to come."

To honor Kiefer for this achievement, Syngenta made a $500 donation in his name to Iowa State University to fund a scholarship for a student majoring in Agricultural Business and another $500 donation to the University of Illinois to fund a scholarship for a student majoring in Agronomy.

Kiefer, who received the award in front of his peers at an award ceremony held during the recent ASFMRA annual convention in Phoenix, Ariz., expressed his gratitude to Syngenta, and award co-sponsors.

"I would like to thank Syngenta, AgProfessional Magazine and The American Society of Professional Farm Managers and Rural Appraisers for the 2011 Professional Farm Manager of the Year award," said Kiefer. "Not only does it recognize my 36 years in the professional farm management industry, but also the things I do on a day-to-day basis for my clients, farm operators and for agriculture."

In addition to membership in ASFMRA, Kiefer belongs to several community organizations. He has served as president, treasurer and director of the Geneseo Jaycees, and is a past member of the Illinois and U.S. Jaycees. He's a member of the Geneseo Kiwanis Club, the Illinois Farm Bureau and the Geneseo First Congregational Church.

To watch the award video honoring Ed Kiefer, visit www.youtube.com/SyngentaAgUS.

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