Kari Olson’s passion for farming and agriculture started as a youngster on the family farm. Today, Olson remains an active participant on her fourth-generation family farm in Hawley.

For 40 years, Kari’s dad, Rob, and grandpa Bob raised hogs, farrow to finish, up until 2013. Her family’s operation in Clay County now farms soybeans, corn and spring wheat. The Olsons also practice 100% no-till in an effort to be stewards to their land.

“We incorporate cover crops into our operation and are currently in the process of buying livestock to graze over those cover crops to continue our soil health journey,” Olson said.

Olson stays involved in agriculture in other ways. She attends educational meetings, works part time for North Dakota State University and serves as treasurer of the Clay-Wilkin County Corn & Soybean Growers Association.

In her roles, Olson sees a need for farmer transparency and consumer education.

“I feel as though the consumer needs us farmers to be more vocal and open about our practices,” she said. “They want to know how their food is produced.”

Her dedication to farming also led to membership in the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association.

“I joined MSGA because I want to make sure that, as a soybean farmer, I have a voice and want to ensure the state has our best interests in mind when making decisions,” Olson said. “This is a way for soybean producers to advocate for their rights in the state so that we can operate freely and profitably.”