Rory and Sheila Metz are 3rd generation farmers in LaMoure County. They have three grown children and two grandkids. Their children include Stephanie, who is living in Iowa, Tim who is in Florida, and Jon who lives nearby and is working into the leadership of the farm.
Rory and Sheila lease out their cropland on shares so they can focus their time on their commercial Red Angus cow/calf operation. They run 5 herds through 11 pastures, rotating every two weeks, or when needed. To accomplish this level of cell grazing, they have worked with NRCS utilizing the EQIP program to install cross fencing and water development including a solar pump.
As a current member of the FSA County Committee, past county Extension Agent, and having a background in agronomy, Rory knows the value of the land and he and Sheila strive to make it a better place for future generations.
As part of a statewide program, they were honored at the 81st Annual NDASCD Convention held in Bismarck last November. The ND Soil Conservation Achievement Awards Program is a statewide program where each of the Soil Conservation Districts in ND recognizes farmers and ranchers who have made an outstanding effort to conserve their valuable resources. This program has continued since 1948 and is the only program of its kind in the nation.
The Metz’s received a framed aerial photo of their farm along with being part of a traveling Soil Conservation Exhibit for one year. This exhibit includes an aerial photo of all of the county winners throughout North Dakota and is displayed at various events throughout the state such as the ND State Fair. The Metz aerial photo will also be a added to the “Hall of Fame” in the LaMoure SCD office.