A farming life is anything but monotonous. Each day promises new rewards or challenges, sometimes both.

The array of daily tasks is what fuels Russ Elliot’s passion for agriculture.

“I enjoy all the different jobs,” says Elliot, chair of the Douglas County Corn and Soybean Growers board. “I like having a job with so much diversity.”

Elliot, 35, is a native of Evansville, Minn., and was raised on a farm. About five years ago, he bought his parents’ farm west of Evansville, where he grows corn and soybeans.

“It was a good opportunity to do something I love and provide for my family,” says Elliot, who runs the farm with his wife, Rachel, and a neighbor.

He’s also worked as a mechanic and seed dealer.

“I like to keep active and work on different projects,” he says.

Since 2009, Elliot has also been a member of MSGA, and appreciates the organization’s commitment toward fighting for farmers’ operating interests.

“I think MSGA does a really good job giving farmers a voice,” Elliot said. “It’s important the concerns of agriculture are heard in the legislature and are part of the public conversation.”