2023-2024 Martin County Visitor Guide

AGRICULTURE
FAIRMONT AND MARTIN COUNTY AGRICULTURE
BY WANDA PATSCHE OF MINNESOTA FARM LIVING
Fairmont and Martin County is the home to a
vibrant and sustainable agricutural environment. The
county is home to over 150 pig farms. In fact,
Martin County raises over 1,700,000 pigs per year,
which makes it the number one hog producing county
in Minnesota. That equates to over 40 million pounds
of bacon each year, which is why we are the
self-proclaimed Bacon Capital USA.
Fairmont and the surrounding community uses the
Bacon Capital designation as a way to have fun and
showcase local pig farming. If you are visiting the area,
you may just run into “Marty the Pig” the Bacon
Capital’s mascot!
You may see pig statues placed outside businesses
around the county. “Going Hog Wild” is a community initiative that was developed to share
what makes our county a great place to visit and call home. You won’t have to look far to
find them as there is a goal to have 100 by the end of 2023. Feel free to take a picture with
your favorite one!
Another way to celebrate pork in Martin County is by using the county’s very own Martin
County Magic Seasoning. It is a great seasoning for all types of pork cuts as well as other
foods and meats. It is available at local grocery stores. The seasoning is popular and is used
across the U.S. Just another way that puts Martin County on the map.
Pigs are not the only thing we
raise in Martin County. Corn
and soybeans are paramount
to the county’s ag economy.
Martin County is the home to
fertile soils. In fact, many refer
to the county as a garden spot
for crops due to the productive
soils. Corn is primarily raised
for livestock feed and ethanol.
Martin County is the home to
two ethanol plants, Green Plains
and Valero.
62 Visitor and Relocation Guide to Martin County | 2023-2024 www.fairmontchamber.org