Sam Bennett

Galva

Why do you want to farm?

I think farming is in my blood. I was raised on a farm, I’m the sixth generation of Bennetts to farm in Iowa, and I really enjoy growing crops! I worked off the farm for a while, but working on the farm every day gives me sense of pride – I feel like this is where I’m meant to be. I’ve always been the one in our operation that has some different ideas of how to diversify or how to do better with the resources we have, so I’ve decided to venture into transitioning part of the farm to an organic system.

What are you farming right now?

I rent 650 acres, growing corn, soybeans, rye, alfalfa and oats.

What’s your vision for your farm?

I would like to see my farm be as resilient as it can be – financially, environmentally and socially. I would like to explore longer multi-crop rotations and continue transitioning part of the the farm to organic production. If that works out, I would possibly expand the organic side of things to more acres. Ideally, I’d like to be able to make a living on the acres I currently have.

Why do you want to participate in this program?

I would like to work with a mentor who has experience with the ins and outs of organic row crop production, and to network with other younger farmers. I would also would like to work on a business plan and long-term planning for my farm business

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