The Iowa Farm Bureau Federation recognized three individuals with its Distinguished Service to Agriculture Award during its annual meeting this week in Des Moines. Kemin Industries’ co-founders R.W. Nelson and his wife, Mary Nelson of Des Moines were honored, along with Carol Messer, a longtime farmer and agriculture advocate from Yarmouth. The Nelsons launched their first manufacturing plant in 1961 with just two product lines. Today, Kemin Industries maintains manufacturing facilities in nine countries with operations in more than 90 countries. R.W. Nelson holds four patents and has been recognized internationally for his innovations; Mary Nelson serves as chair of the Kemin Charitable Contributions Committee, organizing and leading initiatives with local and global impacts. Messer, whose passion for agriculture and service spans more than 50 years, includes promoting agriculture through the Des Moines County Farm Bureau, 4-H and Extension, and serving on the Des Moines County Fair board. The winners received plaques honoring their achievements and will be added to a permanent display at the IFBF headquarters in West Des Moines.