Joseph Klingelhutz
Joseph Klingelhutz
Iowa City, Iowa
Why do you want to farm?
I want to farm because it fascinates me and makes me want to continually learn and try new things. Farming allows me to see the world through a different lens and to appreciate the natural world.
What are you farming right now?
My operation is called Joe’s Bees and I have been beekeeping in Iowa for three years. I also co-manage a vegetable farm in Iowa City called Radical Patch Cooperative. I bottle most all my honey and sell it by the ounce or pound. I only sell raw and pure honey and do not amend my product in any way. I am the primary producer in my operation. I will occasionally have friends help me but I work alone most of the time.
What’s your vision for your farm?
I would like to care for 100-plus beehives that are spread across five to six properties. My goal is to sell honey, bees and beekeeping education. I have many other farming enterprises in mind, such as raising chickens and hogs once I have the land and time to do so. For now, I am focusing on my beekeeping operations while holding down a full-time job and co-managing a small vegetable farm.
Why do you want to participate in this program?
I love PFI and the opportunities you provide to beginning and skilled farmers alike. The Savings Incentive Program will allow me to hone in on my farm business goals while intentionally putting away savings for the future. I know many people who have participated in this program who are now successful farmers.