News : Farm Bureau Financial Services, FFA plant trees in hard-hit derecho community

Area residents team up to plant trees in the Derecho damaged county

Downed trees and branches scattered across yards throughout eastern Iowa in August 2020 after a powerful derecho ripped through the state.

Fast forward nearly a year later and a comeback is taking root thanks to a joint effort between Farm Bureau Financial Services (FBFS), its' agents and the Future Farmers of America (FFA) chapter in Benton County.

On Saturday April 24, Farm Bureau agent Teresa Meyer and members of the Vinton-Shellsburg FFA planted 20 trees at various properties throughout the county. The planting was an effort to replenish the trees destroyed during the derecho; trees planted include maple, oak, and flowering crab.

"Farm Bureau Financial Services is deeply committed to helping Iowans recover from the derecho's devastating impact," said Teresa Meyer, Farm Bureau agent in Vinton, Iowa. "That includes restoring the natural beauty and protective canopy trees provide in the communities where we work and live. Service is an important part of our culture, and through this event, I'm able to give back to the community that means so much to me personally and professionally. Working with these dedicated FFA students, their leaders, and the Frazier Nursey to plant new trees is a fitting tribute to Iowa's resilience. Farm Bureau Financial Services is proud to lead this effort in Benton County."

Frazier Nursey donated planting supplies and directions for the FFA agents.

"Farm Bureau Financial Services is stepping up to help our community restore its beautiful landscape," said Gabby Powers, Vinton-Shellsburg FFA advisor. "And we are happy to be part of that. Our young members are learning that a little hard work can go a long way in helping our community move forward."