Meet Denny Friest, an Iowa Corn Farmer and ICGA Director

Dennis (Denny) Friest has had a passion for agriculture his whole life. This lifelong farmer, and longtime Iowa Corn Growers Association member farms near Radcliff, IA. Denny is the true definition of a family man and enjoys spending time with his wife, Helen, two sons, Brad and Brent, and his daughter, Brenda.

After high school, Denny attended Iowa State University and received a degree in Animal Science. Fresh out of college, he put his degree to work serving in the Army where he worked at the veterinary clinic. At the clinic, he worked as a food inspector and animal technician. After serving for two years, Denny returned home to Radcliff and began farming full time.

Having the ability to be “his own boss” is something Denny enjoys about being a farmer. He currently farms with his son Brent and his wife Colette. Denny often says, “I am part of a family farming operation with Mother Nature and Uncle Sam, and I’ve realized I’m not always in charge.” 
For Denny, the biggest agricultural misconception is the idea that “bigger is better.” He believes it is important to get into farming for the right reasons and farming should be treated as a livelihood, not a job. Denny’s dream is to give his children the opportunity to farm, if they desire. He continues to be amazed how technology and production practices have changed the farming industry.

Currently representing District 5 on the ICGA’s Board of Directors, Denny understands the importance of the ICGA and their representation of farmers. He firmly believes that farmers need to be involved politically to defend not only their business, but their way of life. Denny puts a high value on the representation of farmers and their need for a spokesman in the political world.  “It’s your livelihood, why wouldn’t you want to have a say in the representation that directly affects your operation?”

An active member of the ICGA, Denny also keeps busy with a variety of other activities. He currently serves on the Hardin County Extension Board and is a member of the American Legion. Denny has also served as a Board Member of the Iowa Soybean Association, American Soybean Association and has been involved in international marketing for corn and soybeans.