Location: St. Elizabeth, Jamaica Farm Size: 5 acres Main Crops: Callaloo, Scotch Bonnet Peppers, Sweet Potatoes, Organic Herbs Income: From $200/month to $3,000/month (within 3 years)
Humble Beginnings in the “Breadbasket Parish”
In the heart of St. Elizabeth, a region often called Jamaica’s “breadbasket”, Carlton Chambers, a 42-year-old father of three, was once a struggling sugarcane laborer earning less than $200 a month. Tired of the hard labor and rising costs, he decided to take a leap into organic farming — something barely anyone was doing in his village.
“People laughed when I told them I would stop cutting cane and grow herbs organically,” Carlton recalls. “But I knew the world was changing. People want clean food now.”
Starting Small, Growing Smart
Carlton started with just half an acre, planting callaloo, basil, thyme, and Scotch bonnet peppers. He used compost from kitchen waste and goat manure. He built a rainwater catchment system using old barrels and made natural insect sprays from neem and garlic.
He also connected with RADA (Rural Agricultural Development Authority), who helped him understand crop rotation, soil health, and market trends.
Selling Online and at Farmers’ Markets
Instead of selling to middlemen, Carlton began packaging his herbs and vegetables in eco-friendly paper bags and sold them at local farmers’ markets in Mandeville and Montego Bay. He even created a Facebook page and Instagram account to attract customers looking for organic produce.
Within a year, he had a consistent customer base of restaurants, hotels, and health-conscious families.
“One hotel chef in Negril now buys all his herbs from me. That one client alone gives me over $800 a month!”
From Poverty to Profit
Three years later, Carlton now manages 5 acres of diverse organic crops. His monthly income has grown to $3,000+, allowing him to send his children to school, buy a small van for deliveries, and build a new kitchen for his wife.
He has also trained 12 young farmers in his area, turning his farm into a mini organic training hub.
Carlton’s Tips to New Farmers
1. Start small, but think big.
2. Use what you have — even goat manure is gold.
3. Sell direct. Cut the middlemen.
4. Join local agri-networks.
5. Promote your farm online, even with a simple phone.
A Message to the World
“Farming saved my life. It gave me dignity and purpose. We Jamaicans don’t need to rely on imported food. We can feed ourselves, and the world too — clean and proud.”
Coriander, popularly known as hara dhaniya in India, is not just a kitchen essential—it’s a hidden gem for farmers. Fast-growing, low investment, high demand, and multiple harvests in one season make coriander farming a powerful income opportunity. With current prices ranging between ₹60 to ₹100 per kg, coriander can give ₹2 to ₹3.5 lakh profit per acre in just 45 days!
Let’s dive into the complete guide to coriander farming, its profit potential, health benefits, and tips to boost your income.
Why Coriander is a Jackpot for Small & Medium Farmers?
✅ Grows in 45 days
✅ Needs low investment
✅ Can be sold multiple ways – leaves, bunches, seeds
✅ Demand is constant in every city, hotel, home & restaurant
✅ Can be grown in open fields, shade nets, or polyhouses
️ Best Climate & Soil for Coriander Farming
Ideal Season: October to February (main), or shade net in summer
Temperature: 20–30°C
Soil: Sandy loam or loamy with good drainage
pH Level: 6.0–7.5
Add cow dung/organic compost before sowing for best results
Step-by-Step Coriander Cultivation Process (Per Acre)
Land Preparation:
2–3 ploughings
Raised beds or flat sowing depending on irrigation
Add 10–15 tons of organic compost
Seeds & Sowing:
Use 10–12 kg split seeds per acre
Soak in water for 10–12 hours
Sowing in rows (25 cm apart), cover with light soil
Irrigation:
First irrigation just after sowing
Then every 8–10 days
Use drip irrigation for water savings and better leaf growth
Fertilizer:
Apply light dose of NPK 15:15:15 after 15 days
Foliar spray of micronutrients (like zinc, boron) for lush green leaves
Harvest & Yield
First harvest: 35–40 days
2–3 cuttings possible in one crop
Average yield per acre: 3500–4000 kg of green leaves
Real Profit from Coriander Farming (Per Acre)
➤ Market Price Range: ₹60–₹100 per kg (Depending on season, demand & market)
Example Calculation (at 3500 kg yield):
Selling Price/kg Total Gross Income Estimated Cost Net Profit
Use 100g, 250g, or 500g packs with your farm name, “No Chemicals Used” tag
Grow Year-Round:
Use shade nets or greenhouses to grow even in off-season and get ₹100/kg easily
Use Social Media to Sell:
Market on WhatsApp, Instagram, and Facebook groups
Sell to Corporate Canteens & Meal Services:
They buy coriander in bulk on fixed contracts
Use After-Use Strategy:
After 2 cuttings, let the crop mature to produce coriander seeds, dry and sell
✅ Conclusion
If you are looking for a fast-return, low-risk and high-profit crop, coriander farming is your answer. With rising market prices between ₹60 and ₹100 per kg, farmers can earn ₹2–3 lakh profit per acre every 45 days, especially if they focus on quality, smart marketing, and direct selling.
Coriander is not just a herb – it’s Green Gold for Indian farmers.
Introduction: A Glimpse into the Life of a Saffron Farmer
In the picturesque valleys of Kashmir, where the crisp mountain air mingles with the fragrance of wildflowers, one crop has defined the region’s agricultural legacy for centuries – Saffron. Meet Mr. Shabir Ahmad, a farmer from Pampore, the heart of Kashmir’s saffron production. With a passion for his land and a deep understanding of the challenges and rewards of saffron cultivation, Shabir’s journey is a true testament to resilience, innovation, and the profitability of this golden crop.
Shabir Ahmad’s Saffron Farming Journey: From Struggle to Success
The Beginning
Shabir was born and raised in Pampore, a region famously known as the “Saffron Bowl of Kashmir.” Growing up, he witnessed his family’s struggle to maintain the tradition of saffron farming. In the 1990s, the turmoil in the region had significantly impacted saffron production. Yet, Shabir was determined to revive this historic crop, not just for his family, but for the larger community that relied on saffron as a livelihood.
“I saw the impact of the conflict on the saffron fields. Farmers were giving up, and many fields were abandoned. But I knew that if we invested in proper techniques, we could bring back saffron farming to its former glory,” says Shabir, reminiscing about the tough times.
The Challenges of Saffron Farming
Saffron farming is not an easy task. It requires careful attention, significant effort, and a deep understanding of the land. For Shabir, the challenges were abundant:
1. Climate Dependency: Saffron requires cold, dry conditions. The inconsistent weather patterns, especially the unseasonal rainfall and late frosts, were a constant threat to the crop.
2. Labor Intensive: Harvesting saffron is highly labor-intensive. Each flower needs to be handpicked at the right moment, and each stigma must be delicately separated to maintain its quality.
3. Market Volatility: The saffron market fluctuates due to various factors such as demand, production in other countries like Iran, and political instability in the region.
4. Pest and Disease Management: The soil, if not properly treated, can harbor pests that affect the quality of the saffron.
Turning the Tide: Shabir’s Innovations
Despite these challenges, Shabir was determined to succeed. Over the years, he experimented with various techniques to improve the yield and quality of his saffron. Here are some key innovations that helped Shabir’s farm thrive:
1. Adopting Modern Irrigation Techniques: Shabir introduced drip irrigation to his farm to prevent overwatering and improve efficiency in water usage. This helped to ensure that the saffron received the right amount of water, without risking root rot or fungal diseases.
2. Soil Testing and Treatment: He invested in soil testing to understand the specific nutrient requirements of saffron. By using organic fertilizers and improving soil quality, he was able to increase the yield significantly.
3. Improved Harvesting Methods: Shabir began using modern tools and techniques for harvesting saffron. He trained his workers to handle the delicate flowers carefully, ensuring that the threads were of the highest quality.
4. Diversifying the Business: Shabir didn’t just rely on the traditional market for saffron sales. He explored direct-to-consumer models through online platforms, collaborating with health-conscious buyers and exporters. His saffron is now sold in premium markets across India and internationally, especially to the Middle East and Europe.
Profitable Results: The Impact on Shabir’s Life and Community
After years of hard work, Shabir’s saffron farm finally began to yield the kind of returns he had hoped for. He currently harvests approximately 2-3 kilograms of saffron per year, which sells at a premium price of ₹2.5 to ₹3 lakh per kilogram.
Annual Income: Shabir’s income from saffron farming has risen to around ₹7-9 lakh per year, which is far more than many other crops in the region.
Employment Opportunities: He has also created jobs for more than 20 local workers, providing seasonal employment during harvest time.
“The income has been life-changing. Not only for me and my family but for the entire community. We now have access to better healthcare, education, and the means to improve our livelihoods,” shares Shabir, a proud father and community leader.
Health Benefits of Saffron: More Than Just a Spice
Beyond its premium price, saffron is known for its medicinal properties. It is used in a variety of ways that contribute to both physical and mental well-being. Here are some of its well-known health benefits:
1. Mental Health: Saffron is known to alleviate symptoms of depression and anxiety. Studies have shown that it can help improve mood and reduce stress.
2. Skin Care: It has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, making it a common ingredient in skincare products, especially those aimed at brightening and rejuvenating the skin.
3. Digestive Health: Saffron can help with digestive issues like bloating and gas. It’s also believed to promote a healthy metabolism.
4. Improved Circulation: The active compounds in saffron can improve blood circulation and lower blood pressure, promoting better heart health.
5. Immune System Boost: Saffron contains Vitamin C and carotenoids, which help boost immunity and protect against infections.
Where to Sell Saffron: The Market Reach
Thanks to its international reputation, saffron has a high demand in global markets. Shabir sells his saffron in multiple ways:
1. Local Markets: He supplies to local Kashmiri markets, where saffron is a staple in kitchens and religious ceremonies.
2. Online Platforms: He sells directly to customers through e-commerce platforms, ensuring better prices and bypassing middlemen.
3. Exporting: Shabir exports his saffron to countries like the USA, UAE, and European nations, where demand for authentic Kashmiri saffron is high.
Shabir’s Advice to New Saffron Farmers
“I would say, don’t give up easily. Saffron farming requires patience, but the rewards are worth the effort. Invest in quality soil, proper irrigation systems, and be prepared to handle market fluctuations. It’s a journey, but a rewarding one,” advises Shabir to aspiring saffron farmers.
Conclusion: The Golden Crop of Kashmir
Shabir Ahmad’s story is one of perseverance, innovation, and success. From overcoming the challenges of saffron farming to building a thriving business, his journey proves that with the right techniques and mindset, even the most challenging crops can bring about tremendous financial rewards. Saffron farming in India is not just a lucrative business but a testament to the rich cultural heritage of the region.
This story illustrates how a farmer’s perseverance and the adoption of modern techniques can turn a traditional crop like saffron into a profitable venture. It’s a beacon of hope for farmers looking to diversify and explore high-value crops.
Farming is not just a profession — it’s a way of life that connects families, land, and legacy. For Chandraram, a 42-year-old farmer from the village of Maliyo Ki Dhani in Rajasthan, this connection runs deep. Over the years, his farming journey evolved from traditional methods to embracing organic farming, a transformation that not only revived his soil but also restored his family’s health and financial stability.
The Land and Legacy
Chandraram cultivates multiple crops on his 2.7 acres (1 hectare) of land. His fields produce wheat, millets, mustards, fodder, and cotton — the latter grown on nearly 0.9 acres (0.3 hectares). Cotton farming holds special importance in his family, passed down through generations as a cherished tradition. However, despite the rich legacy, Chandraram’s farming life was fraught with challenges that many conventional farmers face.
Facing Challenges: Soil Degradation and Health Concerns
Around 2016, Chandraram began to notice troubling changes. The soil’s fertility was deteriorating, yields were stagnating, and his family was suffering health issues, most severely his wife’s declining condition. She was afflicted with serious health problems — vision loss, persistent headaches, swelling, and skin rashes. These symptoms were not only a source of personal anguish but also led to mounting medical expenses that strained the family’s finances.
The chemical-intensive conventional farming methods, which included heavy use of synthetic fertilizers and pesticides, were beginning to show their darker side. Chandraram realized that the very methods intended to increase productivity were harming the land and his loved ones.
A Ray of Hope: Discovering Organic Farming through OCA
Amid this crisis, Chandraram was introduced to the Organic Cotton Accelerator (OCA) Implementing Partner (IP) in his region. The IP conducted awareness sessions highlighting the benefits of organic farming — improved soil health, safer crops, better income, and crucially, a healthier environment for farmers and their families.
Inspired by this knowledge and motivated by his wife’s health, Chandraram decided to make a bold shift. He committed to transitioning his farm from conventional to organic cultivation.
Learning and Adopting Organic Practices
The transition was not easy, but Chandraram received hands-on training and ongoing support from the OCA IP. He learned to prepare bio-inputs like compost and natural pesticides, which helped replenish the soil’s nutrients naturally. These techniques were new to him, but with determination and guidance, he implemented them diligently.
Crop diversification became a key strategy — he continued to cultivate wheat, millets, mustards, and fodder alongside cotton. Although intercropping presented challenges due to differing harvest cycles, Chandraram embraced it for its ecological benefits, pest resistance, and improved soil structure.
Economic and Health Benefits
One of the most significant benefits came from the OCA’s procurement system. The IP assured Chandraram a premium price for his organic cotton, removing the uncertainty and risk often faced by farmers in selling their produce. This guaranteed market helped Chandraram invest confidently in organic inputs and improved farming methods.
More importantly, the switch to organic farming drastically improved his family’s health. Without exposure to harmful chemicals, his wife’s symptoms eased considerably. Chandraram estimates that since embracing organic farming, his family has saved nearly ₹2 lakhs (around 2,300 Euros) on medical bills in just one season. This financial relief allowed him to clear longstanding debts and invest in a sturdy storage shed to protect his harvests.
His wife, now healthier and more energetic, contributes actively to farm and household work, strengthening the family’s overall resilience.
Challenges and Aspirations
While Chandraram’s journey is inspiring, he candidly shares the ongoing challenges he faces. Access to quality, non-GMO organic seeds remains a hurdle. Seeds are the foundation of successful farming, and securing reliable sources is crucial for maintaining crop quality and yield.
He hopes for more support and collaboration from government agencies, NGOs, and agricultural organizations to ease access to seeds and further technical assistance.
A Message to Fellow Farmers
Chandraram’s journey reflects the true spirit of sustainable agriculture — nurturing the land, caring for the family, and securing the future. He passionately encourages fellow farmers to consider organic farming not just as a method of cultivation but as a lifestyle choice that benefits their health and the environment.
> “Let’s not feed our kids poison!” he says with conviction. “Organic farming saved my wife’s life, saved my land, and saved our future.”
His story stands as a beacon for many smallholder farmers across India and beyond, proving that with knowledge, support, and courage, a sustainable and prosperous farming future is possible.
Conclusion: Farming with Heart and Hope
Chandraram’s transformation from conventional to organic farming is a testament to resilience and vision. His commitment to improving soil health, securing his family’s well-being, and embracing sustainable practices is a powerful example for the farming community.
As more farmers like Chandraram adopt organic farming, the ripple effect can lead to healthier soils, safer food, and stronger rural economies — a future where farming is truly farming with heart and hope.
Category: World Farmer story | Country: Greece One man’s journey to revive tradition, farm sustainably, and sell Greek gold to the world.
A Farmer’s Return to His Roots
In the sun-kissed hills of Kalamata, Greece, where olive trees have stood for centuries, a forgotten grove once lay silent. But in 2015, Dimitris Karras, a former mechanical engineer living in Germany, made a bold decision. Amidst Greece’s post-crisis chaos, he returned home to reclaim his grandfather’s land, which had been left untouched for over a decade.
“I saw potential where others saw failure,” says Dimitris. “To me, these trees were not just trees. They were heritage, history — and hope.”
Building an Organic Olive Dream
With limited funds and no formal training in agriculture, Dimitris started from scratch:
Land Area: 20 acres of traditional olive groves.
Challenges: Poor irrigation, aging trees, no market access.
Action Plan:
Adopt organic farming techniques.
Invest in drip irrigation and composting.
Use hand-picking for quality.
Cold-press olives within hours of harvest to ensure freshness.
In just two years, Dimitris transformed his farm into an EU-certified organic grove.
The Birth of “Golden Roots”
In 2019, Dimitris launched his olive oil brand – Golden Roots.
The name reflects both the ancient heritage of Kalamata and the modern, high-quality oil he produces. Packaged in minimalist glass bottles with eco-friendly labels, his olive oil quickly caught the attention of global connoisseurs.
He participated in international food fairs, used Instagram to share harvest videos, and told authentic stories about Greek farming culture.
A Global Brand from Local Soil
By 2021, Golden Roots olive oil was being exported to:
Germany
Canada
Japan
He added olive leaf tea, natural olive oil soaps, and even started farm-stay tours for European tourists who wanted to experience Greek farming firsthand.“Tourists love picking olives, tasting the oil straight from the press, and staying under the stars in our old stone house,” he laughs.
Earnings Breakdown (2024)
Source of Income Annual Revenue
Extra virgin olive oil (8,000L) €160,000 (avg. €20/L) Olive-based products (tea/soap) €30,000 Farm-stay & tours €10,000 Total Revenue €200,000+ Net Profit (after costs/taxes) €90,000–100,000/year
Major Cost Areas:
Labor (handpicking)
Organic certification
Packaging and logistics
Marketing
Awards & Recognition
Berlin Olive Oil Awards (2022): Best Organic Olive Oil – Small Producer
Featured in “Greek Gourmet” Magazine (2023)
Collaboration with Athens-based chefs and eco-conscious cosmetic brands.
What Makes Him Successful?
1. Heritage + Innovation He respected traditional farming but infused it with modern technology and branding.
2. Quality Over Quantity He focused on premium buyers, not bulk markets.
3. Storytelling Every bottle comes with a card telling the story of the tree, the harvest, and the farmer.
4. Sustainability No chemicals. Zero waste. Every olive, leaf, and drop is utilized.
“People don’t just buy olive oil. They buy a piece of Greece. A piece of trust.” — Dimitris Karras
Future Plans
Expand land by partnering with nearby farmers.
Launch olive-based skincare products.
Start an online subscription for direct global delivery.
Host international workshops on organic olive farming.
Final Words
Dimitris Karras proves that farming isn’t just about crops — it’s about vision. What was once a forgotten grove is now a global business rooted in passion, purity, and purpose.
If you ever taste Golden Roots olive oil, you’re not just enjoying food — you’re tasting the future of sustainable farming.
Tagline: From poverty to prosperity – how a bold shift from rice to carrots changed everything.
Introduction: A Farmer’s Unshaken Will
In the quiet village of Paramjeetpura in Kapurthala district, Punjab, lives a farmer who turned the tide of his family’s destiny with just one bold move – switching from traditional paddy farming to cultivating carrots. Meet Fuman Singh Kaurra, a man whose journey from economic hardship to earning over ₹1 crore a year is inspiring farmers across India.
A Childhood Marked by Poverty
Fuman Singh was the youngest among six siblings. Growing up, he witnessed his father and grandfather toil endlessly on their farmland. Yet, the income from rice and wheat wasn’t enough – even basic expenses were hard to manage.
Dreaming of a better future, Fuman enrolled in a BA course, hoping to change his life through education. But fate had other plans – he had to drop out in his second year due to lack of money to pay the college fees.
Rather than give up, he joined his family in the fields, also selling milk on the side. But he soon realized that conventional farming wasn’t sustainable and began looking for alternatives.
A Bold Move: Choosing Carrots over Convention
In the early 1990s, very few farmers in his region considered carrots a profitable crop. Fuman, however, saw potential where others saw risk.
He approached a farmer who was growing carrots on a small scale and asked for help. Instead of support, he was mocked. That only fuelled his determination.
In 1993, he made a life-altering decision – he planted carrots on his entire 4.5-acre land, replacing the usual rice and wheat. His experiment worked. The crop flourished, and profits followed. There was no looking back.
Learning from Books and Institutions
Fuman wasn’t content with just growing carrots. He wanted to master the science behind it.
He read agricultural books, visited Punjab Agricultural University, and attended training programs by the Krishi Vigyan Kendra (KVK). He learned about new varieties, soil preparation, irrigation methods, and mechanized seeding techniques.
This blend of experience and innovation helped him improve both the quality and yield of his produce.
Scaling Up: Land, Seeds & Machines
Over time, Fuman Singh’s reputation as a successful carrot grower spread. With profits increasing year by year, he expanded his land holdings – from 4.5 acres to more than 80 acres.
But that wasn’t all.
He started producing his own high-quality carrot seeds, creating a private seed bank so large that it could cover over 650 acres of land. Today, many farmers use his seeds to cultivate their own carrot crops.
He also invested in modern farming equipment – mechanized seeders, harvesters, and sorting machines – reducing labor costs and improving efficiency.
Mandi Comes to Him
In the beginning, Fuman had to travel to markets in Jalandhar, Ludhiana, and Amritsar to sell his produce.
But things changed as the quality of his carrots earned a name. Now, traders and mandi agents come directly to his farm to buy in bulk.
Fuman has reached a level where his farm is the mandi, and he controls pricing and terms – a dream for any Indian farmer.
The Numbers That Matter
Land under cultivation: 80+ acres
Seed bank capacity: 650 acres worth
Annual income: ₹1 crore+
Years in carrot farming: 30+
Main market: Punjab and surrounding states
Key products: Carrots and carrot seeds
A Family Venture
Fuman’s success is now a family enterprise. His son has joined him, bringing in youthful energy and digital knowledge. Together, they manage not just the farming, but also the sales, logistics, and seed distribution.
It’s a shining example of rural entrepreneurship and generational growth through agriculture.
Lessons from Fuman Singh’s Story
1. Dare to be different: A non-traditional crop choice turned into a goldmine.
2. Learn continuously: Reading books and attending training pays off.
3. Build your brand: Quality products bring customers to your door.
4. Invest in infrastructure: Machines increase productivity.
5. Think long-term: Seed production creates passive and consistent income.
Final Words: Inspiration for Every Indian Farmer
Fuman Singh’s journey isn’t just about carrots – it’s about resilience, vision, and courage. Where others saw failure, he saw opportunity. His story proves that with the right crop, right knowledge, and right mindset, farming can lead to fortune.
If you’re a farmer looking for inspiration, remember: The ground beneath your feet could be your greatest asset – just like it was for Fuman Singh.
“From surviving on handouts to thriving as a spinach farmer.”
Thika, Kenya
A Humble Beginning
James Nayami’s life has never been easy. Orphaned at the age of 10 in rural Kenya, he spent his childhood battling hunger and hardship. With no access to school, he was forced to find work at an early age.
Getting jobs was a challenge and when I had no food, I had to live off handouts from well-wishers James recalls
But James never gave up. He learned masonry, worked hard in construction, and eventually managed to build a life — and even a family — through sheer determination.
Planting Hope
James and his wife had little money, but they had something just as powerful shared dreams.
We supported each other with ideas. This is how I started farming and got into the business he explains
Noticing the rising demand for nutritious vegetables, James focused on spinach farming, while his wife sold the produce as a greengrocer. But even then, they earned just Kes 4,000 (about $40) per week — barely enough to support their three children.
A Loan That Changed Everything
Then came a turning point: James met a trained, tech-enabled Grameen Community Agent in his village. The Agent introduced him to a loan program designed specifically for smallholder farmers.
With my first loan of $441, I bought seeds, fertilizer, prepared the land, and hired labor. I expanded my spinach farm and started earning more
The loan was structured to match James’s cash flow, with repayment schedules aligned to his harvest cycles — making it manageable and stress-free.
A Brighter Harvest
With increased spinach yields and better farm planning, James’s income more than doubled. His family’s life began to change.
My life has improved tremendously. I now pay my children’s school fees on time. They’re happy and healthy. I finally feel hopeful
Big Dreams on the Horizon
James isn’t stopping here. His vision is bigger than his spinach fields.
I want to buy my own pick-up truck to transport produce to big markets. I dream of becoming a large-scale farmer and building a house of my own. More than anything, I want to send my children to university — to give them the chances I never had
From Struggle to Strength
James Nayami is proof that with the right support, even the smallest seed of hope can grow into a thriving future. His journey from orphaned child to successful spinach farmer is a testament to resilience, partnership, and smart farming.
Location: Caledonia, Illinois Farmer: David & Susan Cleverdon Story By: Adapted and rewritten by [Your Blog Name]
Introduction: Farming in a Pandemic World
When Covid-19 hit, it devastated traditional sales channels for small farms—restaurants shut down, farmer’s markets were closed, and supply chains broke down. But while many farms struggled to stay afloat, Kinnikinnick Farm in Caledonia, Illinois, emerged stronger than ever—proving that innovation, diversification, and direct customer relationships can make any farm not just survive, but thrive.
From Chicago Traders to Full-Time Farmers
David and Susan Cleverdon never intended to become farmers. Living in Chicago, David was a trader involved in Illinois politics, and Susan worked in marketing. What started as a small organic garden at their weekend home in Sharon, Wisconsin, slowly grew out of hand.
“It just got out of hand. That’s when I decided we didn’t need a garden—we needed a farm,” David recalls.
In 1987, they bought land with an abandoned farmstead near Rockford and began transforming it into what would become Kinnikinnick Farm, named after the creek that runs through it. After five years of hard work and city-to-country transition, they fully committed to farming life.
A Rocky Start: Lessons from Year One
Their first year of commercial farming was, in David’s words, a “disaster.” Growing vegetables at scale was nothing like backyard gardening. They didn’t know what to plant, when, or how much. But instead of giving up, they documented everything, developed systems and protocols, and approached farming like a business.
Kinnikinnick Farm started selling vegetables to restaurants and at farmers markets around Rockford and Chicago. David smartly targeted farmers markets near high-end restaurants—meeting chefs directly. By 2009, their restaurant client base had grown from 10 to over 50.
But then, a tomato blight destroyed 6,000 plants, prompting the Cleverdons to rethink everything.
“We were growing a bunch of varieties but weren’t truly diversified,” said David.
Pivot to Livestock and Farm Stays
Encouraged by an intern and inspired by European farm tourism, David began experimenting with broiler chickens. One small poultry project turned into a thriving livestock operation:
Their colorful eggs—with deep yellow yolks—and premium meat products gained loyal followers. Then came a game-changing decision: farm stays.
A Dutch businessman introduced the idea of rural farm lodging, and David jumped at it. Within weeks, five rustic canvas lodges were delivered to the farm. It became a hit with families from the Chicago area looking for an authentic farm experience.
“Farmer Dave comes with a truck and takes them to feed chickens, gather eggs, feed pigs, milk goats…” said returning guest Basak Notz.
Covid-19: Turning a Global Crisis Into a Farm Opportunity
In 2020, Covid-19 shut down restaurants and farmers markets—the Cleverdons’ traditional sales outlets. But unlike most farms, Kinnikinnick Farm didn’t panic.
Why?
David had already stopped restaurant sales two years earlier, focusing on livestock and farm stays. Vegetables, which are labor-intensive, were scaled back, reducing payroll. When the pandemic struck, he had no restaurant business to lose.
He acted quickly:
Transformed his farm stay website into a full e-commerce platform
Set up weekly product deliveries to Chicago, Evanston, and western suburbs
Partnered with other local producers for bread, soap, grains, and granola
Strengthened direct-to-consumer marketing and branding
“Since the pandemic forced us into doing this, we’re grossing more per week than we ever did,” says David.
✅ Diversify Your Income – Don’t depend on one market (e.g., restaurants). ✅ Control Your Branding – Build your own channels to reach customers. ✅ Embrace E-commerce – Even farms need a website and delivery system. ✅ Turn Setbacks into Strategy – A blight and a pandemic became growth points. ✅ Engage the Next Generation – Farm stays connect urban families with agriculture.
A Farmer at 80: “I Wouldn’t Trade It for Anything”
David Cleverdon is almost 80 years old—but retirement isn’t in the picture.
“It’s a great way to grow old. I’m outside every day. Every day is new and exciting… I wouldn’t trade it. Why would we want to do anything else?”
Final Thoughts
The Kinnikinnick Farm story is not just about survival—it’s about reinvention. From vegetables to livestock, from restaurant sales to farm stays, from offline to online—this farm adapted to every challenge.
In a world rocked by Covid-19, Kinnikinnick Farm stands tall as a blueprint for smart, sustainable, and customer-focused farming.
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Farmer Name: Åse Løvås Location: Troms og Finnmark, Northern Norway Farm Type: Organic Arctic Berry Farming (Cloudberries & Lingonberries) Annual Income: Approx. $85,000–$110,000 (from berry sales, jams, and agri-tourism) Tagline: “Where the midnight sun ripens berries sweeter than dreams.”
The Journey Begins
Åse Løvås was not born into farming. She left her marketing job in Oslo to return to her grandparents’ abandoned land in Norway’s arctic north. Many thought she was crazy to attempt berry farming in a region where winters are brutal and growing seasons are short. But Åse saw potential where others saw snow.
The Arctic Advantage
She chose to grow cloudberries—known as “Arctic gold”—and lingonberries, wild fruits highly valued in Scandinavian cuisine. These berries thrive in the acidic soils and long daylight hours of northern Norway. Åse went 100% organic and sustainable, using traditional Sámi harvesting techniques, which boosted both flavor and marketing appeal.
Innovation & Expansion
Åse didn’t just sell berries. She created a line of handmade jams, Arctic berry wines, and even skincare products from berry oil extracts. She also offered berry-picking tours in the summer under the midnight sun, which became a hit with tourists.
The Profits
Fresh berries (domestic and export): $45,000
Processed products (jams, wine, creams): $40,000
Agri-tourism (tours, farm-stays): $20,000+
She reinvests 30% of her income each year in freezing and packaging tech to extend shelf life and reach international markets.
Challenges
Harsh winters limit growing months
Labor shortage during harvest (solved by hiring seasonal workers from Eastern Europe)
Wildlife damage (uses eco-friendly fencing and dogs to protect crops)
Global Impact
Åse now exports premium Arctic berry jam to Japan, Germany, and the U.S. Her story has been featured in BBC Food and Norsk Landbruksmagasin as an example of rural revival in Norway.
Key Takeaways for Farmers
✅ Niche crops in unique climates can create luxury products ✅ Storytelling + tourism = strong brand identity ✅ Sustainable farming can thrive even near the Arctic Circle
Farmer Name: Seán O’Malley Location: County Mayo, Ireland Farm Type: Small-scale Dairy & Artisanal Cheese Production Annual Income: Approx. €95,000–€130,000 (from milk, cheese, and farm shop) Tagline: “When the cows came home, a new legacy was born.”
From Family Struggles to Farming Dreams
Seán O’Malley grew up on a struggling dairy farm that had been in his family for three generations. By 2015, due to low milk prices and rising debt, the family considered selling the land. But Seán, recently returned from a food tech course in Dublin, convinced them to try something new—turn their raw milk into premium farmhouse cheese.
The Cheese That Changed Everything
Seán launched “Mayo Gold”, a semi-soft, washed-rind cheese made from the milk of his own grass-fed cows. He aged the cheese on wooden shelves in a handmade cellar built into a hillside shed.
In 2018, Mayo Gold won a Bronze medal at the World Cheese Awards, and that recognition changed his life.
Smart Business Moves
Built a micro-creamery on the farm with a local grant (€25,000 from the LEADER rural development program).
Created a farm shop and tasting room.
Added weekend cheese-making classes and farm tours, drawing in tourists from Galway and beyond.
Partnered with gourmet stores and pubs across Ireland.
Income Breakdown
Raw milk sales: €30,000
Cheese sales (direct + wholesale): €70,000
Farm tours & classes: €20,000+
Online orders (started in 2021): growing 10% yearly
Key Techniques Used
Grass-based rotational grazing for high-quality milk
Use of heritage Irish cow breeds (like Kerry and Dexter)
Natural rennet and slow aging (6–9 months) for deeper flavor Impact
Today, Seán trains young Irish farmers through weekend workshops and mentors others wanting to move from commodity farming to value-added products. His story has been covered in Irish Farmers Journal and RTÉ One’s Ear to the Ground.
Key Takeaways for Farmers
✅ Adding value to raw products can multiply income ✅ Local traditions + modern marketing = global appeal ✅ One great product can revive an entire farm
