Get to know Co-op Board Director Wilfred Owens

Wilfred Owens was elected to the Polk-Burnett board of directors by members in co-op District 6 in 2016. He and his family have milked cows in Polk County for more than 100 years since 1912. The Owens dairy farm was started in Indian Creek by Wilfred's grandfather and is now operated by third and fourth generation farmers, including Wilfred and his wife, Linda, and both of their children.

Wilfred takes a lot of pride in his local roots and rural life on co-op lines. His grandmother was one of the first members to receive power from Polk-Burnett in the late 1930s.

His family history and life on the farm are strong motivators for Wilfred's service on the board. "You need reliable power to milk cows, " he said. "The electric co-op's most important role is keeping the lights on. That means keeping equipment up to date and keeping the right-of-way cleared."

The Owens farm raises Jersey cows, a breed that's known for high protein and premium buttermilk. Wilfred and Linda have traveled across the country, and even overseas, to attend Jersey conventions. They also enjoy road trips across the western U.S., spending time with their granddaughter and staying active in Indian Creek 4-H, where they've been leaders for 40 years.

Learn more about your co-op board and see a map of districts.