Employees at NTCA member Marne Elk Horn Communications recently turned a one-of-a-kind community project into a memorable GHP Wellness Connections activity: building Fjord Ferryman, a 22-foot-tall wooden troll created by internationally recognized Danish recycling artist Thomas Dambo. Located on the grounds of the Museum of Danish America, the sculpture celebrates the region’s rich Danish heritage while showcasing the beauty of sustainable art.
As part of GHP Wellness Connections, participating member companies can support employee well-being through activities that encourage connection, teamwork, movement, service and engagement beyond the workplace. For employees who participated, helping build Fjord Ferryman was more than a volunteer opportunity. It was a chance to step outside their regular workday, collaborate with coworkers and local volunteers, contribute to a lasting community landmark and take part in an activity that supports overall well-being.
Marne Elk Horn Communications dedicated crews to the project for three days, working alongside the artist's team to ensure every detail met Dambo's vision. Their participation is a great reminder that wellness is not limited to the workplace. Sometimes, it looks like teamwork, fresh air and community pride.
"Our company had crews on site for three days during the event. Thomas Dambo staffed three men to ensure the trolls were built exactly as Thomas Dambo wanted. The day that I was there, we worked on the troll's toes, following very specific guidelines to ensure it was created to Thomas Dambo's specifications. It was a fun activity, and we always enjoy giving back to our community." — Tonya Olesen, Office Manager, Marne Elk Horn Communications
The community-wide effort brought together 77 carpentry volunteers who contributed more than 620 hours of work over three weeks. Volunteers hauled materials, built scaffolding, cut and drilled reclaimed wood, assembled the sculpture and helped prepare the site.
Constructed entirely from reclaimed lumber, pallets and fallen trees, Fjord Ferryman depicts a giant troll rowing a wooden boat across the prairie—a tribute to the Danish immigrants who settled in western Iowa in the late 1800s. Like many of Dambo's creations around the world, the sculpture is intentionally placed for visitors to discover as part of a "troll hunt," encouraging exploration of the surrounding landscape.
Projects like this reflect the spirit of rural broadband providers. Beyond delivering reliable connectivity, companies like Marne Elk Horn Communications strengthen their communities by volunteering, supporting local initiatives, and helping to create places where people want to live, work and visit.
NTCA congratulates Marne Elk Horn Communications and the Elk Horn community on this remarkable addition that will inspire residents and visitors for years to come.