As seen in the Tried & True Fall 2024 issue
In 1976, a small family business in Adair, Iowa quietly began its journey. Few could have predicted that this modest venture, founded by Charlie Schafer and his brothers, would grow into a powerhouse in the drainage industry. Yet today, Agri Drain is a name every industry insider knows—a company that transformed itself from humble beginnings into an industry leader through relentless innovation and an unwavering commitment to understanding “what’s next.” But how did they achieve such a remarkable rise? The story of Agri Drain is one of bold decisions, cutting-edge technology and a vision that redefined what it means to manage water resources effectively.
From Humble Beginnings to Industry Leadership
Agri Drain’s journey is one of evolution and adaptation. The company’s early days were spent installing drainage systems, a crucial service that helped farmers manage their water resources more effectively. But as the industry evolved, so did Agri Drain. Under the leadership of CEO Charlie Schafer, the company shifted its focus exclusively to manufacturing and distribution, a move that allowed them to pour their energy into creating cutting-edge products that would set new benchmarks for durability and efficiency.
The transition wasn’t just about business strategy; it was about seeing where the future of drainage was headed. Charlie and his team recognized that to stay ahead, they needed to be more than just a service provider–they needed to be innovators. And innovate they did.
Charlie in the trench behind a Holland Drain FSS in the early 80s
Charlie Schafer on the right with a Holland Drainage FSS in the early 80s
The Power of Automation
One of Agri Drain’s most significant advancements came with their embrace of automation. The Smart Drainage System®, their flagship product, represents a leap forward in how subsurface drainage is managed. This isn’t just a system; it’s a reimagination of how to best manage water. By leveraging real-time data, the Smart Drainage System® optimizes water levels in agricultural fields, ensuring that crops receive the right amount of water at the right time. It’s a solution that’s as much about sustainability as it is about efficiency, helping farmers maximize their yields while being mindful of the environment.
The technology behind the Smart Drainage System® is as sophisticated as it is practical. With tools like float-operated water level control structures and automated gates and valves, the system allows for precise control over water flow, adapting to the ever-changing conditions of the land. It’s this kind of forward-thinking approach that has positioned Agri Drain as a leader in an industry where the stakes are high and the demands are constantly evolving.
A Commitment to Collaboration
But Agri Drain’s success isn’t just built on technology; it’s also supported by relationships. The company’s involvement in the Agricultural Drainage Management Coalition (ADMC) and the Ecosystem Services Exchange (ESE) is a testament to their commitment to the broader goals of sustainability and environmental stewardship. These organizations bring together industry leaders, often competitors, to collaborate on solutions that benefit everyone involved. It’s a rare but powerful example of how competition can give way to cooperation when the stakes are high enough.
We really, truly are an industry-driven company, so we work to network with other industry partners. That way we can all build on each other’s successes.
—Charlie Schafer
These partnerships aren’t just about business; they’re about a shared vision for the future of the industry. Agri Drain is leading the way to advancing the field of drainage management, one innovation at a time. Their collaborations extend to every corner of the industry with figures like Fratco’s Craig Douglass playing a key role in the ADMC’s efforts to promote sustainable practices and improve water management across the board.
The unique relationship between Agri Drain and Fratco spans over three decades, it’s a partnership forged in mutual respect and a shared commitment to quality and industry growth. By working together, the two companies have been able to push the boundaries of what’s possible in drainage technology. Fratco is proud to supply their customers with products from Agri Drain because they can trust the products meet the high standards that Agri Drain upholds.
Charlie Schafer at an Iowa LICA farm, 2020
Inline Water Level Control Structure new installation
Always Looking to the Future
As Agri Drain continues to innovate, their focus remains steadfast on the principles that have guided them from the beginning: quality, innovation and sustainability. The Smart Drainage System® is just one example of how they’re leading the charge in a rapidly changing industry. Through their collaborative efforts with organizations like ADMC and ESE, Agri Drain is not only contributing to the advancement of agricultural efficiency but also to the preservation of our natural resources.
The journey that began in 1976 with a simple vision has grown into a legacy of innovation and leadership. And as Agri Drain looks to the future, they’re working to bring even more groundbreaking advancements to the world of water management, proving once again that in the right hands, even the smallest ideas can grow into something truly remarkable.
