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Young farmers say relationships key to early success

A pair of young central Illinois farmers say relationships have been key to their early success. 

Clint Gorden, who began his first-generation farm in Macon County five years ago, says he wouldn’t be farming without friendships.

“In college started working for a group of guys selling seed on the side and these guys said, ‘Hey, if you want to farm your dad’s land, we’ll help you get going or, you know, you can rent equipment or use our equipment, whatever,’” he says.  “Between that and some really good friends of mine, that kind of got the ball rolling.”

AUDIO: Clint Gorden – Macon County, IL farmer

Daniel Herriot, who farms with his family in Champaign County, tells Brownfield having an open line of communication with an ag lender has been vital.

“We were fortunate.”  He says, “We just kept the relationship open for a few years, didn’t really need them, and then we got the opportunity to buy our first piece of ground. They were right there every step of the way and made the process as easy as you can.”

Gorden’s advice to other beginning farmers is…

“Keep working.”  He says, “Whatever your version of work is, you know that might be the office, that might be wrenching, that might be mowing, that might be spraying weeds…I don’t know, but just keep at it and keep hustling.”

Both farmers say pursuing continuing educational opportunities have also benefited their operations.

Herriott and his wife, Constance, along with Gorden, and Washington County farmers, Neil & Kerri Lange, were all named 2024 Directors Cup winners by Farm Credit Illinois.   The Directors Cup celebrates young and beginning farmers committed to continuous learning and community service within their farm family business.

AUDIO: Daniel & Constance Herriott – Champaign, County IL farmers