Jim Petersen is given Legislative Appreciation Awa

January 11, 2006

The South Dakota Corn Growers Association (SDCGA) presented Jim Peterson of Revillo, S.D. a Legislative Appreciation Award at their 20th Annual Meeting Jan. 7. The recognition is given annually to an individual that has gone over and above his call of duty for the agricultural industry.  

“Jim Peterson is not afraid to take a stand for agriculture. He’s been willing to fight the good fight for agriculture in our state. Whether it’s in conference committee or on the floor, this legislator is unwavering in his support for this industry,” said David Gillen, SDCGA president.

Every year that Peterson has been an elected official, he has been the original sponsor of legislation in support of renewable fuels. He has carried the ball for requiring the use of ethanol in state fleet vehicles and has lead the charge to ensure that certain state vehicles be equipped as flexible fuel vehicles. He has also been a watchdog for fairness on ag tax issues.

Peterson, Democratic representative of District 4, was elected to the Legislature first in the House in 2001 where he served until 2004. He served his first term in the Senate in 2005.

Born and raised on a family farm near Revillo, he attended school and graduated in Revillo before going on to obtain a degree from Augustana College. He taught school after graduation but eventually returned to the family farm.

Locally he has served on the Grant-Deuel School board and Revillo Farmers Elevator Board. He and his wife, Jane, are very active in their church. They have four grown sons: Scott, Tim, Heath and Erick.