Koepplins honored at Harvest Bowl

The success, dedication and hard work of outstanding agriculturists in 53 counties in North Dakota and 10 counties in Minnesota were honored during the 47th annual Harvest Bowl program at North Dakota State University on Nov. 19.

NDSU alumni and friends come together with these agriculturalists to honor regional achievements of farmers and ranchers, in agribusiness, and of Bison Athletics. More than 2,900 agriculturalists have been recognized and more than $425,000 has been awarded in scholarships to NDSU student-athletes who are majoring in agriculture or have agricultural backgrounds.

Eddy County's honorees this year were Todd and Karen Koepplin of New Rockford. The Koepplins raise wheat, pinto beans, soybeans, corn and winter rye near New Rockford, using minimal-tillage farming practices. They have been farming for more than 25 years. Karen also is an accountant and receptionist for James River Ag, which their son, Taylor, owns and operates. She was also a 4-H leader for many years. They have two children.

Nathan and Emily Spickler of Glenfield were the Foster County honorees. The Spicklers run a seedstock operation near Glenfield which consists of selling Angus bulls and heifers through an annual production sale. They also grow alfalfa, winter rye, oats, corn for silage and a variety of warm-season forage grasses. The Spicklers use no-till farming practices and an intensive rotational grazing system. They have been ranching for 17 years and received the Foster County Soil Conservation District Achievement Award in 2019 and the North Dakota Angus Association President's Award in 2017. Nathan, a 2005 NDSU graduate, is also a member of the Foster County 4-H Livestock Committee. Emily, also a 2005 NDSU graduate, is a local 4-H leader and on the Foster County Advisory Committee. Both are active on committees and in leadership roles within their church. They have four children.