Third-generation farmer Michael Buer farms in Meeker County near Grove City.
During this year’s Farmfest, he became a member of the Minnesota Soybean Growers Association because he felt it’s important to join an organization that’s speaking up for agriculture.
“It seems like there’s a complete lack of support for the American farmer,” Buer said on why he joined. “I just thought we have to do what we can to promote ourselves.”

He farms full time with his wife, Christine, with the help of their three sons. The Buers grow soybeans, food-grade soy and corn. Buer bought the family farm from his dad almost 17 years ago after buying his first farm at the age of 21.
As a youngster, his path was to become a diesel mechanic, but things changed, and he started farming full time after post-secondary at technical college.
“There’s a lot of respect and admiration for my father and mother and grandfather,” Buer said of being able to continue as a generational farmer. “I don’t take any of it for granted. It’s not about the numbers. It’s not about the value of the farm. It’s the way of life. And like I said, it’s not the value of the land, it’s the ability to use it as a tool to create an income for us.”
Off the farm, Buer volunteers at his church, the Boy Scouts and serves as Swede Township’s supervisor. He’s also involved in 4-H and school activities with his sons.