The Tenley couple, Tanner and Lakaya, have deep agricultural roots that span generations. Growing up on dairy farms, they inherited a passion for farming from their families. With the recent legalization of raw milk sales in Iowa, the Tenleys seized the opportunity to expand their direct-to-consumer business, focusing on beef, pork, and milk products. Their innovative approach has earned them recognition as winners of the Iowa Farm Bureau Federation’s Grow Your Future award, along with a $10,000 prize to further develop their farm market.

Building on their extensive experience in agriculture, Tanner and Lakaya are transforming their family's century-old farm into a thriving hub for local produce. Lakaya’s background includes working at a creamery, which sparked her interest in direct consumer sales. Tanner, meanwhile, has always been involved in raising livestock, particularly beef cattle and hogs. Together, they deliver their products across eastern and central Iowa, fostering strong connections with their customers. The couple also plans to open a farm store, offering visitors an immersive agritourism experience and showcasing the origins of their food.

Through hard work and adaptability, Tanner and Lakaya are setting a positive example for young farmers. By embracing new markets and leveraging social media for marketing, they highlight the importance of innovation in agriculture. Their success demonstrates that with dedication and community support, small producers can thrive and contribute meaningfully to the local economy. The Tenleys’ journey serves as an inspiration, encouraging others to explore unconventional paths within the agricultural sector while preserving the heritage of family farming.