Gjermundsons Named Ranchers of the Year

The North Dakota Stockmen's Association honored the Marshall couple for their commitment to the state's livestock industry.

Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Rodeo

The North Dakota Stockmen's Association presented Brad and Jackie Gjermundson with the 2026 Ranchers of the Year Award. The honor was bestowed during the organization's 97th Annual Convention & Trade Show in Bismarck.

Why it matters

The recognition highlights the couple's long-term dedication to promoting and growing the livestock sector in North Dakota. Their success reflects a commitment to sustainable ranching practices and active industry leadership.

Brad Gjermundson earned four world champion saddle bronc riding titles during his career and qualified for the National Finals Rodeo nine times. The couple has maintained a 33-year membership with the North Dakota Stockmen's Association.

The players

Brad and Jackie Gjermundson

They are a ranching couple based in Marshall, N.D., who operate a commercial cow-calf business.

North Dakota Stockmen's Association

This trade organization represents the interests of the state's livestock industry and producers.

Gilman and Vivian Knutson

They are the former owners who sold their ranch and livestock to the Gjermundsons in 1987.

The details

Brad and Jackie Gjermundson operate a commercial cow-calf ranch near Marshall, N.D., which they purchased from Gilman and Vivian Knutson in 1987. Brad Gjermundson, a member of both the ProRodeo Hall of Fame and the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame, manages the ranch finances with a focus on conservative growth and readiness for industry challenges.

The couple married in 1984.
They purchased their ranch and livestock in 1987.
Brad Gjermundson entered the ProRodeo Hall of Fame in 1995.
Brad Gjermundson entered the North Dakota Cowboy Hall of Fame in 2009.
The award was presented on Sept. 26, 2026.

Season Trajectory

The recognition of the Gjermundsons highlights the deep intersection between competitive rodeo history and modern agricultural success in the state. This award reinforces the enduring influence of legacy figures within the current livestock production cycle.

The award acknowledges the couple's long-term financial management of their cow-calf operation in Dunn County. Their success demonstrates a viable path for multi-generational ranching operations in North Dakota.

The takeaway

The award honors the evolution of a professional athlete into a successful steward of agricultural land. The Gjermundsons' career serves as a model for balancing professional sports success with long-term commercial cattle ranching.