Mike Cronin

Mike Cronin

SD Corn Growers Association

Secretary/Treasurer - District 6

The list of crops that Michael Cronin grows on his family farm near Gettysburg is longer than a 7-year-old’s Christmas wish list. The Cronins raise corn, soybeans, sunflowers, winter wheat, spring wheat and oats. Also, peas, barley, lentils, millet and forage crops for 750 cow-calf pairs.

Mike started farming in 1985 with his dad and his brother, Monty. They’ve since added Mike’s son, Tregg, and Monty’s sons, Casey and Corey, to the operation. Mike said he chose farming as an occupation because that’s what he grew up with and what he loves doing.

He graduated from Gettysburg High School before pursuing a bachelor’s degree in agricultural business from South Dakota State University.

Cronin said the most important issue facing today’s corn farmers is determining economic rotations that provide soil diversity for improved soil health.

When he’s not busy, he likes to spend time with his family and traveling. He and his wife, Jamie, have four adult children: Tregg, Kirsten, Alyssa and Hallee.