About Autumn
My name is Autumn L. Ogden, and I’m running to serve as a Soil and Water Commissioner in Polk County in the November 3, 2026, General Election.
I’m a sixth-generation farmer living in Ankeny. On our family farm, I raise cattle, sheep, laying hens, corn, hay, honeybees, and a vegetable garden. My husband, Laramie, and I have two daughters.
I have served as a Polk County Soil and Water Assistant Commissioner since 2024. In January 2026, I was appointed by the board to complete the remainder of Commissioner Cindy Valin’s term following her passing after a battle with cancer.
Why I’m Running
I’m running because I want to stay involved, continue learning about conservation, and help make a difference in my community. Serving as a commissioner has given me the opportunity to learn more about the challenges and opportunities facing our soil and water resources, and I want to keep building on that experience.
I grew up with the 4-H motto, “To Make the Best Better,” and I see serving as a Soil and Water Commissioner as one way I can put that motto into practice. Conservation is a lifelong learning process, and I believe we can always find ways to improve how we care for the land and water we depend on.
Conservation in Polk County
I enjoy being part of the conservation work happening across Iowa’s most urban county. I have served on the long-range planning committee and helped develop the Polk Soil & Water Conservation District’s five-year plan. I have also worked with district staff to promote field days and educational opportunities and support conservation programs for both rural landowners and urban residents.
As a farmer, I believe healthy soil and clean water are resources we have a responsibility to protect for the next generation. I want to manage our farm in a way that preserves those resources, while sharing what I learn and helping others find practical ways to improve their own land—whether that’s a backyard or the back 80.
I regularly collect water samples and test nitrate levels in Four Mile Creek and Indian Creek. Twenty years ago, my test strips did not register measurable nitrate levels. In 2026, the samples I have collected have tested between 20 and 50 ppm throughout the season. Those observations have reinforced for me that there is important conservation work ahead.
Looking Ahead
During my next term, I would like to expand our outreach to children throughout the district through opportunities such as the annual Conservation Districts of Iowa poster contest and support for outdoor learning experiences.
I want to help the next generation understand the connection between their everyday actions and lifestyle choices and the health of our soil and water resources. Whether it’s making a choice in a backyard garden, learning where our food comes from, or understanding how water moves through our communities, small actions by many people can make a big impact.
As a commissioner, I want to continue supporting practical conservation, responsible stewardship of district resources, and opportunities for Polk County residents to learn about and participate in conservation.
I would appreciate your support on November 3 as I continue this work and do my part to promote soil and water conservation in Polk County.
My name is Autumn L. Ogden, and I’m running to serve as a Soil and Water Commissioner in Polk County in the November 3, 2026, General Election.
I’m a sixth-generation farmer living in Ankeny. On our family farm, I raise cattle, sheep, laying hens, corn, hay, honeybees, and a vegetable garden. My husband, Laramie, and I have two daughters.
I have served as a Polk County Soil and Water Assistant Commissioner since 2024. In January 2026, I was appointed by the board to complete the remainder of Commissioner Cindy Valin’s term following her passing after a battle with cancer.
Why I’m Running
I’m running because I want to stay involved, continue learning about conservation, and help make a difference in my community. Serving as a commissioner has given me the opportunity to learn more about the challenges and opportunities facing our soil and water resources, and I want to keep building on that experience.
I grew up with the 4-H motto, “To Make the Best Better,” and I see serving as a Soil and Water Commissioner as one way I can put that motto into practice. Conservation is a lifelong learning process, and I believe we can always find ways to improve how we care for the land and water we depend on.
Conservation in Polk County
I enjoy being part of the conservation work happening across Iowa’s most urban county. I have served on the long-range planning committee and helped develop the Polk Soil & Water Conservation District’s five-year plan. I have also worked with district staff to promote field days and educational opportunities and support conservation programs for both rural landowners and urban residents.
As a farmer, I believe healthy soil and clean water are resources we have a responsibility to protect for the next generation. I want to manage our farm in a way that preserves those resources, while sharing what I learn and helping others find practical ways to improve their own land—whether that’s a backyard or the back 80.
I regularly collect water samples and test nitrate levels in Four Mile Creek and Indian Creek. Twenty years ago, my test strips did not register measurable nitrate levels. In 2026, the samples I have collected have tested between 20 and 50 ppm throughout the season. Those observations have reinforced for me that there is important conservation work ahead.
Looking Ahead
During my next term, I would like to expand our outreach to children throughout the district through opportunities such as the annual Conservation Districts of Iowa poster contest and support for outdoor learning experiences.
I want to help the next generation understand the connection between their everyday actions and lifestyle choices and the health of our soil and water resources. Whether it’s making a choice in a backyard garden, learning where our food comes from, or understanding how water moves through our communities, small actions by many people can make a big impact.
As a commissioner, I want to continue supporting practical conservation, responsible stewardship of district resources, and opportunities for Polk County residents to learn about and participate in conservation.
I would appreciate your support on November 3 as I continue this work and do my part to promote soil and water conservation in Polk County.
