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Tell us a little bit about your agritourism business:
We started as a u-pick blueberry farm and have expanded to grow day neutral strawberries. We also have a family orchard and grow paw paw, persimmon, chestnut and hazelnut as well as some pumpkins and potatoes this year. We bring in other local products to sell at our farmstand.
How did you get started in agritourism and how many years have you been in business?
We started farming in 2014, transitioning the entire farm to organic. We opened the u-pick blueberries in 2019 (season 8) and started growing strawberries in 2024 (season 3). The expanded farmstand after blueberry season happened when a neighboring farmer stopped in with his truck full of watermelons. From a hayrack in the driveway to a fully functioning farm stand evolved and continues to change and grow.
Do you have any new projects on the farm or upcoming events?
We have a big spring plant sale...this is the 3rd year. It takes place on Saturday May 9th from 10 - 2 (Mother's Day weekend). We have food trucks and lots of vendors catering to all things for mom! We are growing potatoes this year for a Practical Farmers of Iowa study and farmer Steve is excited about this new crop!
What do you enjoy most about the agritourism industry?
The people! We love our customers! Many have been coming since the early years to pick blueberries. We also love our employees! There is nothing better than seeing the blueberry girls (employees) great the customers by name and even exchange hugs.
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