Younggren Family
In 1985, Lowell and Juli Younggren, along with Lowell’s older brother Charles, took over their father’s farm. They raised wheat, sunflowers, barley and hay to support their 40-head cattle herd while Lowell worked at the Harvest States elevator and Charles worked at the CHS fertilizer plant. Over time, they expanded both their acreage and cattle herd until the farm became their sole livelihood. During these years, Lowell and Juli raised their three children, who grew up learning and working alongside them on the farm.
Today, Lowell and Juli’s son Nathan and his wife Tori represent the sixth generation of Younggren farmers. They operate an Angus/Simmental cow-calf herd and raise soybeans, wheat, canola and forage crops. Their operation incorporates conservation practices such as cover crops, no-till and rotational grazing. Lowell and Juli’s daughters and their families also remain involved. Their daughter Jacki and her husband Matt, and their daughter Nikki and her husband Mark, were previously part of the operation before purchasing their own ranches within the county. They continue to lend a hand when needed.
The Younggrens are active in their community, supporting their church, county sports, local businesses and the county fair. Lowell referees hockey, plays summer softball and has served on the Kittson County Fair Board since 2004. He also serves on the county agriculture committee and the Kittson County Historical Society Board. Juli enjoys flower gardening, weaving and volunteering at the local food pantry and Bible study. She served as a 4-H leader while their children were involved and continues to support 4-H by helping with her grandchildren’s projects.