We have a wonderful team at Janie’s Farm. I am proud that my son Ross, my nephew Tim, and many neighbors all work here—to make a living and to make a difference.

Young people are often told “don’t come back to the farm—there’s no room for you.” It seems like the goal of many farmers is to eliminate somebody. I want more farmers than there were when I came in. And I see with organics we can do that. Organic farming provides the opportunity to bring in a new generation of farmers because more eyes and hands are needed on a diverse, organic operation like ours.

Harold Wilken

co-Owner/sales
 

Harold Wilken’s great-grandfather began farming in Illinois in 1882. He had an organic, biodiverse farm before anyone called it that. Harold and his family are continuing that tradition of growing good food for their community.

Tim Vaske

Tim grew up on a cattle farm in Kentucky and used to tell his Uncle Harold how much he’d like to come work for him. Harold always says “Be careful what you wish for!” but it turned out perfectly in this case. In 2013, Tim joined the team at Janie’s Farm. While his focus has been on maintenance of equipment, he also works with Ross to manage the farm.

In addition, Tim raises grass-fed cattle and sells his beef to restaurants, butcher shops, and anyone who wants delicious, high-quality meat from healthy animals. Contact Tim about his Grazin Haven Grass-Fed Beef at 859-991-2154 or tvaske04@gmail.com

Ryan Wolfe

Ryan began working at Janie’s Farm in 2011, and asked Ross and Harold about transitioning his conventional acreage to organic production. Today Ryan’s 160-acre farm produces certified organic grains, and Ryan is the multi-talented, do-everything guy at Janie’s Farm.

Colton Henrichs

Colton grew up in the local farming community and helped on his grandfather’s farm. He went to school in northwest Iowa, but returned to central Illinois and now does whatever needs to be done on Janie’s Farm.