Rooted in Family, Jon Nelson Grows Toward the Future
Discover how Lake Preston farmer Jon Nelson is blending generations of experience with new ideas for healthier soils and a stronger future. Watch his full farmer feature to see how Jon’s dedication to family, legacy and innovation continues to shape South Dakota agriculture.
Journey to Farming
Jon Nelson’s roots in agriculture run deep. His grandfather immigrated from Norway in the early 1900s, served in World War I and returned home to start the family’s farm near Lake Preston. Today, Jon proudly carries on that legacy as a third-generation farmer, managing about 3,000 acres of corn, soybeans and wheat.
From a young age, Jon knew farming was where he belonged. He recalls tagging along behind his dad in the fields, clutching the back pockets of his coveralls to keep up. “I always wanted to be where he was,” Jon says. “That’s when I knew this was what I wanted to do.”
Cattle and Crops
For much of his career, Jon’s operation also included a 2,000-head feedlot. He enjoyed caring for livestock, describing it as something you either “love or you don’t.” While harsh South Dakota winters bring their challenges, Jon says it’s the hot, humid summer days that test a cattleman most.
“The cattle can handle the cold,” he says. “It’s those high heat and humidity days that are tough. You care about them, and when they’re uncomfortable, you feel it too.”
That deep sense of stewardship, for both his animals and his land, has shaped Jon’s approach to farming today.
Building Better Soil
In recent years, Jon has focused on soil health, adopting practices like no-till farming and reducing fertilizer inputs. Since 2018, he’s largely eliminated dry phosphorus and potassium applications, instead using liquid nutrients and focusing on building soil biology.
“We’ve built up our soils,” Jon explains. “Now we’re feeding the biology and letting it work for us. You can dig anywhere and find earthworms. That’s how I know we’re heading in the right direction.”
Jon’s approach has reduced commercial inputs while maintaining strong yields, proof that sustainable practices and profitability can go hand in hand.
A Family Legacy
Farming has always been a family affair for the Nelsons. Jon’s son, Tyler, is now actively involved in the operation, and his young grandson already dreams of taking the reins someday. “He’s seven and all he thinks about is the farm,” Jon says with a smile.
Family stories and traditions run deep here, from the home Jon’s great-grandfather built to moments shared across generations. One of Jon’s favorite memories is when Tyler handed him his first all-around rodeo belt buckle and said, “Thanks for all the opportunities. I want you to wear this.”
“It’s not just about farming,” Jon reflects. “It’s about family, work ethic and leaving things better than you found them.”
Looking Ahead
As a member of the South Dakota Soybean Association board, Jon is inspired by the next generation of leaders he meets. “Their enthusiasm and dedication give me hope,” he says. “They’re smart, engaged and ready to make agriculture even stronger.”
For Jon Nelson, the future of farming is about more than yields, it’s about care for the land, the people, and the generations yet to come.
