Farmer Spotlight: Brett Arnzen
Kendel Wynott, Highland-Craigmont FFA
On the Camas Prairie here in Northern Idaho, we, naturally, have a ton of farmers. One farmer in particular that deserves to be recognized is Brett Arnzen. Brett has been living and farming in Craigmont, Idaho for his entire life. Farming is something that he had always wanted to do after working in the industry as a child. Brett’s entire family, for as far as you can possibly look back, has either been a farmer, or been somehow involved with the industry. Even both of his brothers have spent their fair share of time farming. It is truly a family business for the Arnzen’s. Growing up, he worked for family and friends all the way up until ten years ago when he began farming for his own operation.
Brett hasn’t looked back since! He currently farms 1000 acres, with crops ranging from hay to wheat. In total, Brett works with seven different types of crops including hay, barley, wheat, lentils, canola, peas, and oats. These crops are some of the best growing crops in our region due to our true, four-season climate. While farming is Brett Arnzen’s truest passion in life and business, it is certainly not the only thing that he does.
On top of dedicating himself to his business, Brett is also very involved in the community. He is a member of the Craigmont Lions Club as well as the girls basketball coach for the Highland Huskies. The Craigmont Lions Club is a group of individuals that works to support school groups and the City of Craigmont through sales of their “famous” burgers. In being the girls basketball coach, Brett dedicates the slow times of his farming year towards working with a group of teenage girls with high hopes to make it to state. On top of this, at every community or school event, Brett is always there to support or help out when needed. Brett Arnzen is also the father of two small children who will likely take over the farm one day. He is an excellent father who puts his kids above all else, always making time to spend with them even during the busyness of harvest and basketball season.
All in all, Brett Arnzen deserves to be recognized not only for his contributions to the agriculture business, but to his dedication to the community, the town, and his family. He is a wholesome, reputable farmer in our area that definitely deserves the spotlight.