Jordan Scott - Four Years Later
For Jordan Scott, farming isn't just a career—it's a legacy more than 125 years in the making.
On his South Dakota family farm near Valley Springs, generations have planted the same fields, cared for the same land and produced corn and soybeans while working to leave the land better than they found it. Today, Jordan is proud to continue that tradition as a South Dakota farmer, carrying forward more than a century of family farming.
Returning to the South Dakota Family Farm
Unlike many people might assume, Jordan didn't immediately return to the generational farm after high school. Instead, he built experience away from agriculture before eventually deciding to return home to help grow the family's corn and soybean farm.
"My dad asked me to come back, and I quit a job that I really enjoyed, knowing that I would really enjoy this way more."
His experience off the farm ultimately made him a stronger farmer, bringing leadership skills and a fresh perspective back to the operation.
Why Modern Agriculture Needs More Farmer Stories
Jordan believes one of the biggest challenges facing modern agriculture isn't growing food—it's helping consumers understand how today's farms operate.
"I think it's important for farmers to share their stories because historically we've not been good at that."
Many people have never stepped foot on a South Dakota farm, making it difficult to understand the decisions farmers make every day.
"The more we explain what we do and why we do it, the more understanding there will be..."
By sharing stories from family farms, Jordan hopes to help consumers better understand where their food comes from and the people behind it.
Leadership Beyond the Soybean Field
Working alongside his father has shaped how Jordan approaches both soybean farming and leadership.
Today, Jordan serves on a soybean board, advocating for South Dakota farmers while continuing to manage the family's operation.
His father says watching the next generation of farmers step into leadership has been one of the greatest rewards of his life.
Raising the Next Generation of Farmers
Now Jordan is experiencing family farming from a new perspective—as a father.
His young sons already love climbing into tractors and riding through the fields, just as he did growing up on the family's farm.
Whether his kiddos eventually choose farming in South Dakota or another career, Jordan wants them to know they're always welcome back.
Why Family Farming Is About More Than Crops
People often associate farming in South Dakota with long hours and unpredictable weather, but Jordan says the greatest reward is the lifestyle.
"I get to have my kids out here running around..."
For Jordan, farming isn't just about growing corn and soybeans. It's about spending time together, caring for the land and ensuring this generational farm is ready for whoever comes next. For families like the Scotts, that's what modern agriculture is really about.
Not just growing crops but growing a legacy.
