South Dakota Ag Connection - Hamburger Farms Tapped as 2010 Premier Seed Grower

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Hamburger Farms Tapped as 2010 Premier Seed Grower
South Dakota Ag Connection - 02/05/2010

The South Dakota Crop Improvement Association named Hamburger Farms of Seneca their 2010 Premier Seed Grower.

The award was presented at ceremonies in Pierre. Brothers Phil and Elmer Hamburger have produced certified seed for more than 20 years, including certified spring and winter wheat, soybeans, millet, and oats.

"Their operation is truly a partnership between brothers, and their wives, Barb and Cecilia, help to keep the business going with excellence," said Neal Foster, the executive director of the South Dakota Crop Improvement Association. "They have more than earned this honor, and crop producers across South Dakota know their name is synonymous with top-notch seed."

Phil Hamburger said receiving the award was not only a surprise, but also a motivational force towards future work.

"It's a special feeling and a deep honor to receive this award," he said. "We feel privileged to earn it, but we intend to expand, and improve, as we go forward.

In 1976 and 1980, each of the Hamburger brothers started farming, and Foster said together they realized the necessity for high-quality seed.

"They realized the need for good seed and were not satisfied with the quality that was available, so they started to produce seed from their own operations, but still did not feel that the quality was where it should be," Foster said. "Somehow this came up in conversation with Dewayne Siebrasse, who knew their potential and encouraged them to become certified seed growers."

The brothers purchased their own seed cleaner to meet their needs, and eventually their neighbors began to buy seed from them. The brother's families were directly involved and worked to build their entire operation.

"Some of the best things about the seed business, are getting to know your neighbors and your customers," Phil Hamburger said. "In many ways, our work helps to develop not only their crop operations, but it builds community relationships."

Hamburger said the friendships developed strong roots. When a tornado destroyed the bins where the Hamburgers stored both clean and unclean seed, one of their significant customers was worried that they might not be ready for the season.

"This customer came to help us, and he brought several members of his crew, and equipment," Phil Hamburger said. "With his help, we were able to clean up the mess from the storm, and we were able to provide clean seed to our customers that season."

Foster said that honesty is part of the reason Hamburger Farms was named the 2010 South Dakota Premier Seed Grower.

"It's an honor that we bestow with a sense of pride, knowing their history and their customers so well," said Foster. "Hamburger Farms is the epitome of a quality operation."