Nate and Melissa Morts, both dedicated farmers and parents, are the driving force behind a thriving pork production operation located just outside Kensett in Worth County, Iowa.
Their journey is marked by hard work, commitment, and resilience, and serves as a testament to the values deeply ingrained in American agriculture.
Their farm is a bustling hub of activity, home to a wean-to-finish tunnel barn operated in partnership with Christensen Farms, housing approximately 2,400 pigs, and a herd of around 120 cows. But that’s not all—The Morts also cultivate corn, beans, pumpkins, sunflowers, and various other crops, creating a diverse and dynamic agricultural ecosystem.
While Nate dedicates himself full-time to the farm, Melissa balances her time between farm work, raising two children, and her role as a lender in town. Their collaborative effort ensures the farm’s smooth operation, particularly during critical periods such as when newborn pigs arrive on the scene.
“Our days and interactions in the hog barn, especially when the pigs are young, are divided,” Melissa explained, reflecting on their shared responsibilities. “I usually take the night shift because Nate’s out in the fields either during the fall or calving in the spring. We share chores, take care of the pigs, and assist with cattle. It’s a team effort.”
Both Nate and Melissa grew up with a love for farming and a special affinity for pigs. When they embarked on their own farming venture, they made the strategic decision to build a wean-to-finish barn, a move aimed at mitigating risks associated with their farming operation.
