Environmental Impact
Chemical Application
Weather can be unpredictable, and spring winds often turn a routine field pass into a risk for chemical drift. On a windy day in April or May, the last thing anyone wants to see is a sprayer running — yet it has become increasingly common.
In 2025, 28 days in April and 25 days in May recorded wind speeds over 10 mph, conditions where responsible operators know spraying should be avoided. With so few ideal application windows, timing becomes critical.
Chemical application is a necessary part of modern agriculture, but how and when it’s done matters. By owning our own sprayer, we control the timing, the conditions, and the stewardship. This ensures applications are made responsibly, protecting our crops while minimizing environmental impact and safeguarding our neighbors.
CRP and Filter Strips
On many of our farms, we partner with the DNR and NRCS to implement environmentally responsible farming practices.
One example is the use of native filter strips along streams and other bodies of water. These areas are planted with native grasses and plants that naturally filter runoff, improving water quality as it moves from the field into nearby waterways.
We also take a proactive approach to managing erosion, another key environmental concern. Working with the NRCS, we construct waterways designed to carry water at the proper speed and slope to prevent soil loss. In addition, we utilize no‑till and minimal‑till practices where appropriate to help maintain soil structure and reduce erosion.
Cover Crops
We use cover crops across a number of our fields as part of our commitment to environmentally responsible farming. Species like rye and barley protect the soil during the off‑season, reducing erosion, improving water infiltration, and capturing nutrients that might otherwise be lost. As these plants grow and decompose, they build organic matter and strengthen soil structure, creating a healthier foundation for future crops. By integrating cover crops into our rotation, we’re not only improving productivity — we’re actively supporting long‑term soil health and environmental stewardship.