Nebraska’s economy is primarily driven by agriculture, and the families that farm the land. Changes in the agricultural economic landscape, the rise of the local movement, the increasing recognition that we need to care for our soils in a more sustainable manner, and the anticipated growth in the number of farms changing hands in the next decade are factors contributing to the importance of this event. The two main groups we are involving in this event are current, diversified producers and college students, who are some of the next generation of farmers and producers.
Participants of this event will be expected to gain new knowledge of the diverse opportunities in farming. They will gain a greater understanding of the markets of the various products being produced by the panelists, how to begin to pursue these opportunities, and know the keys to building successful, sustainable, and diverse operations.
More information about each producer and panelist:
Steve Tucker, AgriForce Seed:
Steve transitioned his family farm after returning from college at UNL from a wheat and summer fallow operation to a no-till system producing a variety of peas, winter wheat, millet, forage blends and inoculants. Steve is passionate about learning and discussing the changes that are occurring in agriculture. He is an advocate for the future in agriculture, helping to spread the word that there are different ways to achieve sustainability for the future. Reducing tillage, promoting soil heath, farm efficiency and helping others change their paradigms in regards to these issues are the core of what Steve speaks to as he works to help shape tomorrow.
Jay Wolff, Wolff Farms:
Wolff Farms is a family farm owned by Duane and Darlene Wolff. It is located on land that has been in the family for 140 years. Jay, son of Duane and Darlene, and graduate of UNL, also contributes to the on-farm efforts. Duane has personally farmed it since 1979 conventionally, then organically, always with the desire to stay away from chemicals. He would never sell a product that he wouldn’t buy or have his own family use. A large part of the farm has been put into wildlife habitat and they practice “promote life, don’t destroy it”. All vegetables are grown using organic practices, and have become certified organic in 2015. All animals are raised naturally and on pasture.
Yolanda Bailey, Fox Run Farms:
Yolanda and her family have farmed their family farm for 37 years. Upon taking over in 1981, they began utilizing their farm in new ways that take less land; growing fruits and vegetables, raising bees with a product of honey. They continue to expand the fruit operation, and are working to install a certified kitchen to produce honey. They see a bright future with value-added products like a blended fruit juice or sauce for schools, and more.
Ryan Pekarek, Pekarek's Produce:
Pekarek’s Produce is a family owned and operated vegetable production operation. Ryan began the business in 2004 while in college. All of the produce is grown on his family’s land, near Dwight, NE, where he is still farming. Pekarek’s Produce raises over 50 varieties of crops on more than 15 acres. They enjoy selling directly to the public. This gives them an opportunity to exhibit, sell, and discuss the fine vegetables we grow. Everyone who sells for Pekarek’s Produce at the markets has been involved with the production of the vegetables.
This event is free and open to the public. Contact Katie Kreuser at katie.kreuser@unl.edu or 402-267-2205 with questions or to RSVP.
This event is sponsored by Nebraska Extension, the Department of Agronomy & Horticulture, and the UNL Agronomy Club.
More details at: https://go.unl.edu/886g