Darling family is selected as Nobles County Farm Family of the Year

The Darling family of Rushmore has been named Nobles County’s “2025 Farm Family of the Year” by the University of Minnesota.

A press release explains that the Darling family’s farm story started in 1973, when Lynn Darling began farming with his parents near Wilmont. A year later, he married Shelley, and they settled on the Newburn farm by Rushmore. Over the years, they built a diverse operation with crops, hogs and a cow-calf herd. By 2000, they exited the hog business. In 2020, they sold the cattle to focus more closely on corn and soybeans.

Lynn and Shelley raised their kids, Seth and Brandy, with farm chores as a part of their daily life, especially when both parents were away driving charter buses. Shelley also worked off the farm. In 2002, they moved to the Goebel farm, continuing to crop farm with the support of two loyal landlords who they count themselves lucky to have.

Today, the farm remains a family effort. Lynn and Shelley, Seth and Kaia, and Brandy and Jason each have their own operations, but come together for planting, harvest and baling. Seth’s family farms near Round Lake, raising calves, sheep and show pigs. Brandy’s family lives on the old Newburn place, running a cow-calf herd and raising 4-H pigs.

Beyond the farm, the Darlings are deeply tied to their community. Lynn has held roles on the fair board, township and soil water boards for more than 30 years and helps with the Tri-State Beef Show. The entire family stays active in 4-H, FFA and livestock shows by mentoring youth, supporting projects and cheering on the next generation.

The families will be officially recognized in a ceremony Thursday, Aug. 7 at the annual Farmfest near Redwood Falls. Profiles of the 2025 honorees are featured at z.umn.edu/farm-families-2025.