Interim Update
Dear friends and neighbors,
Summer is flying by—I can’t believe it’s already August! In Minnesota, we’re a part-time legislature, which means when we’re not in session, we return to our everyday jobs and responsibilities back home. For me, that means trading in my seat at the Capitol for my seat in a tractor. Farming isn’t just a job—it’s a way of life. Most of my time is spent managing the crops on my farm, and caring for our cattle, making sure everything runs smoothly from sunrise to sunset. It’s hard work, but it’s also incredibly rewarding—and it keeps me connected to the land, the weather, and the real challenges that folks in rural Minnesota face every day.
 Of course, this summer hasn’t only consisted of work on the farm. I’ve also been busy making rounds at community events, sitting down for in-district meetings with constituents and advocates, and stopping by parades and county fairs. Sure, parades and fairs are part of the campaign season—but honestly, they’re one of my favorite ways to meet people, share what’s happening in the legislature, and hear firsthand what’s on your mind. These conversations—whether at the end of a parade route or over a cup of coffee—help shape the work I do when I’m back in St. Paul.
It’s been a busy season in all the best ways, and I’m grateful for the chance to serve both in the field and at the Capitol.
Now, let’s catch you up on what I’ve been up to this summer!
Touring East Central Energy’s Broadband Expansion
 Last month, I had the privilege of joining Senator Putnam for a tour of East Central Energy’s broadband expansion—and let me tell you, it’s the kind of progress that makes you proud to call this corner of Minnesota home! Funded in part by nearly $15 million in Border-to-Border Broadband grants, this project is helping close the digital gap in Isanti, Kanabec, and Pine counties—one mile of fiber at a time.
On our visit, we saw the work up close. Connected Nation, the state’s contracted verifier, was on-site doing speed tests and mapping checks to make sure the network meets top-notch performance standards. We also stopped at MINPACK, a commercial printer in Pine City, where owner Brent Thompson shared how switching to ECE Fiber has been a game-changer—more reliable, faster, and keeping his business running smoothly. And it’s not just his business that’s benefiting—his home in Kanabec County is now better connected too.
To date, ECE Fiber has rolled out more than 2,200 miles of fiber, connected over 5,000 homes, linked about 300 businesses, and created 45 new local jobs. That’s real impact—not just in numbers, but in opportunities for people right here in our own backyard.
As someone who farms for a living, I know broadband isn’t a “nice-to-have” anymore—it’s part of how we do business. From running equipment with precision Ag tools to staying in touch with suppliers, customers, and family, fast and reliable internet is just as important as good roads and reliable electricity.
As your representative, I’ll keep working to secure funding for projects like this—investments that keep rural Minnesota competitive, connected, and ready for the future. This project proves what’s possible when state leadership, local cooperatives, and dedicated funding work hand in hand. I’m grateful to East Central Energy for leading the way and for showing that when we invest in our communities, everyone wins!
100 Years of Heart and Harvest in Hinckley
As a fellow farmer, I know firsthand the early mornings, long days, and unwavering dedication it takes to keep a farm thriving—not just for a season, but for generations. That’s why it’s such a privilege to congratulate the Sikkink family of Hinckley on being named a 2025 Century Farm by the Minnesota State Fair and the Minnesota Farm Bureau.
This honor speaks to more than the acres you’ve cultivated or the livestock you’ve raised—it’s about the love you’ve poured into your land, the traditions you’ve upheld, and the role you’ve played in strengthening your community. Your century-long commitment is a testament to perseverance, stewardship, and the values that keep Minnesota agriculture strong.
From one farming family to another, thank you for setting such a shining example. You’ve proven that farming isn’t just an occupation—it’s a calling, a heritage, and a way of life. Congratulations, and may your legacy continue to flourish for generations to come.
Honoring Our 2025 U of M Farm Families of the Year
We’ve honored our Century Farm winners—but the celebrating doesn’t stop there! Three outstanding families from our district have also been recognized by the University of Minnesota as 2025 Farm Families of the Year, and each one is a shining example of what makes Minnesota agriculture so special.
The Harth Family of Hinckley has been farming in Pine County for over a century, transforming stump-covered acres into thriving pastures, orchards, and pollinator habitats. Their long-standing commitment to conservation and community service runs deep through multiple generations.
The Erickson Family of Mora—proud stewards of “Backache Acres”—has been rooted on the same soil since 1906. Over the years, they’ve shifted from dairy to beef, pigs, and crops, always grounded in hard work, family values, and responsible land management as a certified Tree Farm.
The Hardy Family of Rust Hill Ranch in the St. Croix River Valley continues a Norwegian homesteading tradition with a modern focus on grass-fed meats, forest-raised pork, and pastured poultry. Their dedication to sustainable farming supports healthy soils and a strong local food system.
To the Harths, Ericksons, and Hardys—congratulations on this well-deserved honor, and thank you for showing us all how farming is not just a livelihood, but a legacy.
Let’s Stay in Touch!
As summer winds down, I’m grateful for the conversations, smiles, and handshakes I’ve shared with so many of you—whether it was catching up at a local fair, visiting with folks at the grocery store, or meeting with the local leaders who keep our communities thriving. It’s a privilege to represent a district filled with hardworking, grounded, and community-minded people.
If you have a question or concern, my door—and my inbox—are always open.
Let’s make the most of these last few weeks of summer, and I look forward to seeing you out in the district!
Sincerely,
Representative Nathan Nelson
Minnesota House of Representatives, District 11B
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