In Bridgeport, Nebraska, the Kepler family has cultivated not just crops, but a legacy. The Keplers, who are dedicated alfalfa farmers, share their story of tradition, hard work, and the joys of raising a family on the farm in the heart of rural America.
Growing Roots
“I grew up on the farm,” Amanda Kepler begins, her pride of coming from the rural lifestyle beaming through her words. “In fact, my dad put me in a swather when I was [our kids’] age, and I wasn’t heavy enough to even hold the seat down. He had to strap me in with bungee cords so I could help him.”
From a young age, Nick Kepler was also immersed in the rhythms of farm life. By high school, he was running a couple of pivots of alfalfa. After a stint in Omaha, where he and Amanda lived for five years, the call of the land brought them back.
“When we started having kids, we decided to come back here,” Amanda recalls.
“We had an opportunity to farm close to home, and we just took it,” Nick says.
City vs. Country
The decision to return to rural life was driven by a desire to give their children a different upbringing.
“We didn’t want our kids to go into a big city school,” Amanda says.
“Being able to have the kids grow up doing this kind of thing, it’s teaching them more than they actually think it is,” Nick reflects.
The Keplers believe wholeheartedly that the farm offers a peaceful, quiet environment where the children can learn valuable life skills.
21st Century: Going the Extra Mile
Nick’s children are already showing a love for the farm.
“They like being with the animals and around the equipment,” says 21st Century salesman, Aaron Ogden. “They love coming into John Deere and they love 21st Century Equipment.”
The support of Aaron and 21st Century Equipment has been crucial, the Keplers say.
“Aaron and Nick are like best friends,” Amanda says.
“Aaron Ogden’s probably the reason why I go through them with most everything,” Nick agrees. “Without him, it would be a lot harder. He’s really helped me out.”
Embracing Technology
Modern farming techniques have transformed the way the Keplers work.
“We’re running RTK (Real-time Kinematics) on the swathers,” Ogden says. “There’s sub-inch accuracy.”
“With RTK, we can almost cut whole pivot lines out,” Nick says.
Aaron explains that with this tech, Nick can set track spacing wider and cut more hay, stepping up the efficiency of their entire operation. He also notes the ability to demo equipment before purchasing has been a game-changer, allowing them to stay ahead in the industry.
Passing the Torch
As the Keplers look to the future, they see the children continuing the family tradition.
“Having twin [boys], it’s been fun. Peyton, [our daughter, was] our first, and she likes the animals too. She has a big heart and is right there with me when it comes to taking care of them,” Amanda says.
“I definitely see them wanting to do this in the future,” Nick agrees.
The Kepler family’s story showcases the enduring bond between land and family. As they work the fields, they are not just growing crops but nurturing a legacy that will thrive for generations to come.