Plains Tree Farm and DPM Inc. Named 2026 “Thriving in Thayer County” Business Award Recipients

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Thayer County, Neb. — The Thayer County Economic Development Alliance (TCEDA) is proud to announce Plains Tree Farm and DPM Inc. as the 2026 recipients of the Thriving in Thayer County Business Award. This year’s honor recognizes not just a successful business, but a family’s multi-generational commitment to entrepreneurship, stewardship, and long-term investment in Thayer County.

Plains Tree Farm and DPM Inc. will become the fifth inductees into TCEDA’s countywide Business Hall of Fame, an honor reserved for businesses that exemplify resilience, leadership, and a deep connection to the communities they serve.

“One of the benefits of serving on a board, like TCEDA, is that we get to learn about some amazing businesses right here in Thayer County.  Great businesses like Plains Tree Farm and DPM Inc. quietly operate here within our community exporting value outside our local economy providing good jobs right here.  The business and its owners and management are active cogs of our county and its organizations which we thank them for.  Celebrating success and thanking Plains Tree Farm for "living in Thayer County" is what this award is all about!  Great work!” 

- Pat Kenner, TCEDA President

Through Plains Tree Farm, the family has built a trusted operation known for quality products, responsible land stewardship, and strong customer relationships. With the growth of DPM Inc., they have expanded that legacy by supporting additional industry and economic activity in the region. Together, the two businesses reflect a thoughtful approach to growth while staying grounded in the rural values that define Thayer County.

“We appreciate the support of the TCEDA and thank them for considering us for this honor. We are proud to be part of the Thayer county community and value our relationships in Davenport and Thayer County. We look forward to working together to make Thayer County great today and in the future.” 

- Aaron Oltmans, Plains Tree Farm & DPM Inc. Vice President

Plains Tree Farm and DPM Inc. will be formally recognized at the 2026 TCEDA Annual Meeting & Banquet on March 19 at the Stastny Community Center in Hebron. The evening will include networking beginning at 5:00 p.m., followed by dinner and the award presentation.

As part of the recognition, TCEDA has partnered with Nebraska-Kansas Stateline Media to produce a spotlight video telling the story of the businesses and the family behind them. The video will premiere at the banquet and will also be featured on TCEDA’s website following the event.

The annual meeting will also feature keynote speaker Cory Hepola, a nationally recognized storyteller whose message of leadership, resilience, and community aligns closely with the story of Plains Tree Farm and DPM Inc. “This award is about more than business success — it’s about the stories we tell and the pride we take in the places we call home,” said Carley Bruning, Executive Director of the Thayer County Economic Development Alliance. “Plains Tree Farm and DPM Inc. exemplify the positive, forward-looking story of Thayer County, and Cory Hepola’s keynote will challenge us to reconsider the narratives we pin up for the world to see, inspiring renewed connection, pride, and possibility within our communities.”

The Thriving in Thayer County Award honors businesses that demonstrate long-term success while strengthening the local economy and quality of life. TCEDA is honored to recognize Plains Tree Farm and DPM Inc. and grateful for the lasting impact their family continues to have across Thayer County.

The public is invited to attend the TCEDA Annual Meeting & Banquet. For more information about the Thriving in Thayer County Business Award or the Annual Meeting & Banquet, visit www.tceda.org.

THAYER COUNTY ECONOMIC DEVELOPMENT ALLIANCE is committed to enhancing the quality of life for its residents by fostering economic growth and business development throughout Thayer County, Nebraska. Through innovative programs, valuable resources, and strong community partnerships, TCEDA works to attract and retain businesses and improve the region's workforce, infrastructure, and housing availability.

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Contact Information:

Paige Hansen

Community Coordinator, TCEDA

310 Lincoln Ave., Hebron, NE 68370

(402) 768-7407 | coordinator.TCEDA@gmail.com