Aanerud family
The Aanerud farm is a multi-generational agribusiness managed by Andy and supported by his wife, Heather, his parents, Jim and Lorraine, his son Micah, daughter Savannah, one full-time employee, several seasonal machinery operators, and when possible, Andy’s step-family members.
Andy and Heather raised four children, Cambria, Rebekah, Savannah and Micah. Their decision to homeschool afforded them ample opportunity to promote a hands-on learning environment of the farm operation and cultivate their passion for agriculture. The children were all heavily involved in 4-H, showcasing their agricultural talents in such projects as raising and showing horses and rabbits, and gardening. FFA extended their agricultural experiences as they engaged in agricultural communication, horse judging, farm business and entrepreneurial efforts--winning at both state and national FFA levels. Savannah served as the Minnesota FFA State Sentinel.
In 2021, Savannah started her career as the Stevens County 4-H Extension Educator supporting over 200 youth in developing their experiences and abilities in learning, leading, and serving. In 2021, Micah started renting and farming land to promote and develop his farming expertise. In 2022, Micah graduated from North Dakota State University with a major in agricultural economics and a minor in crop and weed sciences. After graduation, he married Hannah Bentley from Hawley and worked for two years as an intern for Cru, an interdenominational Christian college ministry in the Fargo-Moorhead area. In 2024, Micah and Hannah bought a home in Morris to return to work on the family farm.
Andy has been a member of the Farm Bureau for 35 years serving as county Farm Bureau president, board member, membership chairman, young farmer and rancher chairman, and currently vice president. Andy and Heather have advocated for the farming industry on local, state and national stages. Andy is an FFA alumnus and supports the local Morris FFA chapter.
The Aanerud family has been actively involved in multiple levels of 4-H, FFA and Farm Bureau. They support the Donnelly Threshing Bee in multiple capacities and host the Donnelly Threshing Bee 5K Walk/Run charity event. Andy and Heather received the Stevens County Soil and Water Conservation Outstanding Conservationist Award in 2014.