Legacy in the Fields: Ross Tschetter on Family, Farming, and Community
Discover how Bridgewater farmer Ross Tschetter is carrying on a family legacy while embracing new ideas to grow a strong, sustainable farm. Watch his full farmer feature to see how Ross’s commitment to family, leadership, and innovation continues to shape South Dakota agriculture.
Growing up on a family farm, Ross Tschetter learned the value of hard work, teamwork, and a strong sense of place. “You always tend to identify with this sense of place pretty specifically,” Ross says. “And as you grow older, it becomes more and more important.”
Ross and his wife, who also comes from a ranch and farm out West River, love watching their children grow up on the farm—learning, helping, and exploring the land that has been in their family for generations.
Fourth Generation Farming in McCook County
Ross is a fourth-generation farmer from Bridgewater, South Dakota. He and his family run a diversified operation that includes soybeans, corn, alfalfa, small grains, and a cattle feedlot.
“Working with my family has been an evolution,” Ross explains. “Each of us has our opinions and priorities, but it’s taught me how to lead, communicate, and manage in a way that benefits the whole operation.”
For Ross, farm leadership is about honoring tradition while improving the operation for the future. “Everyone who’s in leadership leaves their own mark,” he says. “That’s how it should be because the situation changes as leaders move on.”
Lessons from the Past
Ross grew up learning from his dad and grandfather, helping in the fields and with livestock from a young age. He recalls walking beans before modern technology like Roundup-ready seeds and sharpening corn knives by hand.
“We’d all take our rows, chop the weeds together, and it was never drudgery,” Ross says. “The prevailing sentiment was that we’re all in this together. Everyone contributes what they can when they can because it’s the right thing to do.”
Those lessons inform the way Ross runs the farm today and teaches his own children. “Every job is important,” he says. “If it’s done well, whether it’s helping in the garden, cleaning a tractor, or assisting with livestock, it teaches valuable life skills.”
Leadership Beyond the Farm
Ross is also active in the agricultural community, serving on boards like South Dakota Ag and Rural Leadership, the local FSA committee, and as a director with the South Dakota Soybean Association.
“Leadership is a skill that needs to be exercised,” he says. “Being involved off the farm gives you perspective and tools that you can bring back to your operation.”
Through these experiences, Ross continues to learn and grow, always seeking ways to improve communication, decision-making, and sustainability on the farm.
Planning for the Future
For Ross, farming isn’t just about the present—it’s about setting up the next generation for success. “Growing up on a farm leaves an impactful imprint, but you can’t predict what kids will choose. My goal is to have the operation in a strong position, financially and operationally, so if they express interest, we can start that conversation.”
By combining lessons from the past, smart planning, and community involvement, Ross is building a legacy that supports both family and community while honoring the land that has been in his family for generations.
