Agriculture is a source of tradition and community. Located near Princeton, MN, Brickton Genetics is a fourth-generation dairy farm looking forward to celebrating the farm’s 100^th anniversary in 2033. Thomas Duden and Kristin Reiman Duden currently operate the 30-cow farm passed down from Kristin’s great, great grandparents. The family purchased the land in 1933, though until the 1920s, the land held three clay pits with a brick factory. The factory was known for its iconic cream-colored bricks which inspired the name Brickton Genetics. On the farm, Kristin manages the cattle, and Thomas oversees the crop production. Kristin said, “Dairy is a big part of our life and it’s something we’re proud to have.”

Thomas and Kristin are both active advocates for the dairy industry on a national and local level. They’re passionate about communicating with others who might not understand the dairy industry or have misconceptions about the farming lifestyle. “It’s important to have conversations with the public so that we’re able to tell our story and people can relate to us. We’re pretty much the same. We just have a different background having the farm,” said Kristin. Living on a smaller dairy farm themselves, Thomas and Kristin want to show how they operate and care for their cows no matter the size. “The beauty of the dairy industry is that you can have all different sizes of operations, but we’re all in this together,” said Kristin. “It’s the American dream. Everybody can have their own scale,” said Thomas.

Thomas Duden and Kristin Reiman Duden

To be effective advocates for dairy along with representing family farms, Thomas and Kristin have put themselves out on the national level. As First District Association Young Cooperator members, Thomas and Kristin took a trip to Washington D.C. for National Milk Producers Federation’s Dairy Policy & Legislative Forum. “In Washington D.C. we got to meet with legislators and policy makers to let them be aware of the issues we are facing as dairy farmers,” said Thomas. Experiences like their Washington D.C. trip are great learning opportunities that Thomas and Kristin have been able to take back home to the family farm and the public. They stay educated to help their community be more knowledgeable in agriculture.

Thomas and Kristin actively participate in multiple local dairy events. They host an annual event in conjunction with the Princeton Chamber of Commerce called Food Trucks on the Farm. By spotlighting dairy, they connect with people who might otherwise feel removed from agriculture. “Dairy education is important to ensure that dairy is part of the future,” said Kristin. Thomas and Kristin also assist in an event called “Adopt a Cow” hosted by Chick-fil-A in Coon Rapids where they offer free kids and plush cows. Thomas and Kristin bring calves for the public to meet when they go to the event. Last year 250 kids meals were served. “It’s a really good event because it gets the conversation rolling in an unconventional way,” said Kristin, “People are curious, and we love having these conversations.”

Thomas and Kristin emphasize working with youth, especially with 4-H and FFA kids. The students love working with the animals and being out on the dairy farm. “With the average person being removed three generations now, these 4-H and FFA kids are getting the opportunity they wouldn’t otherwise be able to have. It helps the kids to be more hands-on, and it inspires them to carry on the tradition,” said Thomas.

Thomas and Kristin are exemplary advocates for the dairy industry. Their love for dairy runs deep and they are proud to outwardly spread their passion for dairy education. Thomas and Kristin hope to explore agritourism and continue working with youth volunteers. Through their dedication, Thomas and Kristin are ensuring the legacy of the family farm continues, “It’s a way of life. It’s a different lifestyle, but it is a good lifestyle.”