Reflecting on 2025: Growth, Gratitude and Sustainable Farming Achievements

As 2025 comes to a close, it’s clear this year brought significant progress and meaningful change on the farm. Growth wasn’t just about expanding fields or increasing yields; it was about building stronger foundations, improving systems, and deepening our commitment to sustainable farming. The lessons and experiences from this year are shaping how the farm will move forward in 2026.

2025 Mount Carroll Farmers Market Booth - Changes are coming for 2026!

Building Capacity with New Infrastructure

One of the most visible changes this year was the addition of a second high tunnel. This structure has given the farm more protected growing space, allowing crops to thrive beyond the traditional outdoor season. The high tunnel extends the growing window, helping to produce fresh vegetables earlier in spring and later into fall. This means more consistent supply and less vulnerability to unpredictable weather.

Alongside this, the wash and pack area received a major upgrade. Thanks to support from Practical Farmers of Iowa (PFI), the space was expanded and reorganized to improve workflow during harvest days. This upgrade has made cleaning, sorting, and packing produce faster and more efficient, reducing time spent on these tasks and allowing more focus on planting and care.

Learning and Growing Through Mentorship

2025 marked the first year in a two-year program with Practical Farmers of Iowa designed specifically for beginning farmers. This program provided mentorship, goal-setting guidance, and business planning support. The accountability and advice received throughout the year helped shape important decisions, from crop planning to marketing strategies.

Having a mentor to turn to made a big difference. We are excited to take what we've learned and apply it to some of our growing practices in 2026.

Shifting Focus to Full-Time Farming

A major personal milestone was Daniela stepping away from her full-time job in May to focus entirely on the farm. This shift allowed for more hands-on management and quicker responses to daily challenges. It also meant dedicating more time to community engagement, such as participating in the Mount Carroll Farmers Market for the third season.

Being fully present on the farm has already shown benefits. It’s easier to experiment with new crops, manage the high tunnels, and build relationships with customers and partners. This commitment reflects a deep belief in the farm’s mission and potential.

Expanding Market Reach

This year brought exciting opportunities to reach more customers beyond the farmers market. A new restaurant partnership was established, allowing fresh, local produce to be featured on menus. Additionally, the farm’s products became available at the Jo Daviess Local Foods store and through an online market platform.

These new sales channels provide convenience and variety for customers, while also increasing farm revenue. They help connect more people with local food and support the farm’s sustainability goals by reducing food miles and packaging waste.

Moving Toward Sustainable Transportation

Closing the year on a high note, the farm upgraded its delivery vehicle to a fully electric van powered by solar energy generated on-site. This step reduces carbon emissions and aligns with the farm’s commitment to environmental responsibility.

Using solar power to charge the van creates a closed-loop system that feels especially meaningful. It demonstrates how renewable energy can integrate with farming operations to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower the farm’s overall footprint.

Gratitude for Community Support

None of these achievements would be possible without the support of the local community. Whether through shopping at the farmers market, cheering on the farm’s progress, or sharing encouragement, every small action has contributed to this year’s success.

The farm team expresses deep gratitude to everyone who believed in their vision and helped make 2025 a year of growth and learning. This support fuels motivation to keep improving and expanding sustainable farming practices.

Looking Ahead to 2026

The experiences and improvements from 2025 set a strong foundation for the coming year. Plans include continuing to refine growing techniques, exploring new crops, and strengthening partnerships with local businesses and customers.

With expanded infrastructure, a dedicated farming time, and a growing network of supporters, the farm is well-positioned to build on this year’s momentum. The focus remains on sustainable practices that benefit the environment, community, and farm viability.