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Tried & True

We want you to feel like a part of our family and get to know the whole Fratco community! That’s why we created Tried & True–a publication that talks about all things Fratco. We celebrate our employees, recognize our loyal customers and educate about water management solutions.

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At Fratco, our legacy of innovation and quality spans over a century, and we're far from finished. We’ve put together a short video series to showcase how we’re “Investing in Tomorrow." This series invites you to witness our journey as …

Jobie Watson, owner of Twin Oaks Environmental, is no stranger to business adversity; competing in the crowded market of environmental solutions, the odds were stacked against him. Dominated by industry giants, the company faced an uphill battle just to secure …

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 …

In the pursuit of goals, we often wait for the perfect moment, the ideal resources or the absolute certainty of success. However, Ashe’s advice offers a different perspective: the art of starting with what you currently have and where you …

The roots of KTS Custom Fabrication can be traced back to the earnest efforts of Dave and Jean Leichtman, whose upbringing in family farming instilled in them the values of hard work and community trust. Dave and Jean grew up …

In our industry, we work with plastic every day, and recycling Fratco pipe is a simplified process since the pipe is only made from two types of plastics. Can we just recycle all the plastic we use at home the …

Success is often portrayed as a distant, almost unattainable goal, achieved only by a few. However, Hilton’s words remind us that the essence of success is not in a flawless journey, but in perpetual motion in the relentless pursuit of …

Whether it’s from customers, coworkers or the boss, feedback is like a roadmap to doing things better. Here’s how to take that feedback and use it to up your game.

In the earth beneath our feet lies an intricate blend of minerals, organic matter, air and water–what we like to call, soil. This dynamic mixture serves as an often overlooked building block of civilization, from agriculture to construction. But what …

In the ever-evolving story of construction technology, trenchers–including what has become industrial drainage plows–stand out for revolutionizing the way we manage land and water. These formidable machines, which cut through the earth to create trenches, have played an important role …

Jeff Webb’s journey at Fratco is a testament to the company’s commitment to nurturing talent and fostering a supportive work environment. Joining the company eight years ago, Jeff serves as the Controller and CFO, overseeing financial operations across all Fratco …

In 2013, Jon Pfeifer laid the foundation for PNA Drainage in Richland, Iowa out of a passion for drainage and a wealth of experience in the field. Over the past decade, with a dedicated crew of three, they’ve laid an …

sock filter on pipe

In the heart of our thriving Fratco community lies a commitment to excellence, one of many traits vividly shared with our valued partner, Carriff Engineered Fabrics. Carriff’s sales and marketing director, Shayne Stonehouse, met with us to help tell Carriff’s …

River map

As drainage experts, we're not just laying pipe; we're key players in guiding water through these natural pathways. Whether it's a small creek in a rural area or a large urban canal, our work is part of a larger cycle …

Windmills in field

In today’s world, going green isn’t just for the tree-huggers. It’s smart, it’s necessary and it’s something we can all get behind. Whether you’re on a construction site, in a workshop or running a warehouse, there are straightforward ways to …

hand reaching into recycled resin

At the heart of Fratco’s advanced corrugated drainage pipe lies the intricate chemistry and sophisticated makeup of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and high-density polypropylene (HDPP). These materials are not just plastics; they are marvels of modern chemical engineering, tailored to meet …

Truck and excavator in field installing pipe

In the heart of Mazon, IL, there's a company that embodies the spirit of hard work and versatility—Precision Farm Drainage, Inc. At the helm of this dynamic outfit are Dan Wilkinson and his right-hand man, Tyler Cockerham. Both work together …

shovel standing in dirt

Outrageous success, as grand as it sounds, isn’t a far-fetched dream. It’s the cumulative result of small, consistent steps forward. It’s in learning from each project, celebrating the wins and learning from the setbacks. In an industry that’s the backbone …

flooded field

Rainfall, a vital component of nature’s cycle, is eagerly anticipated by growers worldwide. It’s the heartbeat of agriculture, quenching thirsty crops and nurturing soil. However, this natural gift can quickly turn into a challenge when it becomes excessive.

Mark Richardson headshot

Back in January 2018, Mark Richardson started his journey with Fratco, coming from an impressive 30-year stint in the automotive industry. But it wasn’t just a switch of jobs for Mark; it was the beginning of a new chapter in …

two people walking through farm field

We are always looking to move forward, dreaming of the future we’re heading to. But true success, the kind that leaves a lasting mark, is not a fleeting mirage but a destination reachable through patience, persistence and perspiration.

Keegan Kult thumbnail

After successfully launching the Batch & Build program, a story featured in the fall issue of Tried & True, a similar program is also taking off in Iowa, Minnesota and Ohio. This program named, “Turn-Key,” is the same practice being …

Drainage Solutions, inc. facility

Drainage Solutions, Inc., a long-time partner of Fratco, is a remarkable drainage systems and solutions distribution company that has not only weathered the storms of time but also emerged stronger with each challenge.

Forklift vehicle picking up Fratco pipe

Thanks to loyal customers like you, Fratco has experienced remarkable growth. We’re extremely thankful for your trust. However, new growth always brings new challenges. Rest assured, we’re tackling these head-on.

Man driving truck holding thermos

Out in the field, on a construction site or traveling between jobs, there’s nothing quite like a warm meal to fuel your day. Sometimes cold sandwiches or paying for fast food just doesn’t cut it. Remember the thermos of hot …

pipe being manufactured

In the world of manufacturing, construction and innovation, the importance of standards cannot be overstated. Especially here at Fratco, where we hold ourselves and our products to high standards of reliability and endurance. Standards are the invisible threads that bind …

two farmers shaking hands in field

In the world of construction and contracting, salesmanship isn’t just about moving products or winning projects; it’s about building trust, offering real value and forging lasting relationships.

Man moistening hands with lotion

The toil of the trade in winter climates can often lead to one pesky issue: dry hands. Whether you’re handling drainage pipe or shaking hands with a customer, maintaining healthy hands is the best way to keep up with any …

Water is a precious resource vital for agricultural production and the overall health of our environment. As the demand for food grows and concerns about water quality and sustainability increase, it becomes crucial to find innovative solutions for responsible water …

Central Plastics Inc. is a remarkable success story in the drainage industry. We talked with Curt Yoder, co-founder of Central Plastics Inc., to get the scoop on how they partner with Fratco in Illinois to bring the best quality products …