BAGLEY — The Nennich family was recently recognized as Clearwater County’s University of Minnesota Farm Family of the Year.Ter-Lee Gardens was started in Clearwater County by Terry and Loralee Nennich in 1989 with the goal to provide high-quality and locally grown produce to customers.
The current 40-acre operation in fruit and vegetable production includes 9 acres of strawberries, six high tunnels and two greenhouses with four marketing divisions: U-pick strawberries, farmers markets, community-supported agriculture or CSA, and wholesale for Farm-to-School and other programs.
The Nenniches moved to the Bagley area in 1988 and purchased a former dairy farm with their three children. The couple is proud to have realized their dream of raising their family on a family farm while supplying high-quality produce to Northern Minnesota, a news release stated.
“These farm families are a major driver of Minnesota's economy and the vitality of Minnesota's rural communities,” stated Bev Durgan, dean of the University of Minnesota Extension, in the release.
"These farm families are a major driver of Minnesota's economy and the vitality of Minnesota's rural communities."Bev Durgan, dean of U of M Extension
“The University of Minnesota is proud to recognize these farm families for their contributions to agriculture and their communities.”
Terry Nennich Sr. is a U of M Extension professor emeritus, serving as a fruit and vegetable specialist for the university for more than 30 years.Loralee Nennich oversees two marketing divisions of the farm operation and has served as a substitute teacher and church organist when needed.
Honored families are chosen, one per county, by local U of M Extension committees, with a recognition ceremony planned at the annual Farmfest in Redwood Falls.
Farmfest runs 8 a.m.-4 p.m. Aug. 1-3 at the Gilfillan Estate.
