Source: Grand Forks Herald
A Minnesota potato-growing family has won national recognition for their dedication to preserving land.
The Hapka Family of Halma, Minn., received the Environmental Stewardship Award from the National Potato Council (NPC) during the national meeting Jan. 12-13 in Orlando, Fla. The award represents a “commitment to stewardship of its land and protection of our shared environment,” according to a newsletter from the Northern Plains Potato Growers Association.
“The award winner is a leader in adopting innovations that reduce the risks associated with pesticide application, support wildlife habitat and promote improved water quality and water conservation,” states the newsletter. “Their leadership by example encourages other producers to focus their attention on these important environmental values.”
Lance Hapka runs the 800-acre potato farm with his father, Leon, and sister, Jennifer Borowicz. They also deliver potatoes to J.R. Simplot in Grand Forks, N.D.