“The landscape of any farm is the owner’s portrait of himself.” – Aldo Leopold.
Where to Find Farm Fresh Foods
If you are looking for farm-fresh foods near you, here are some links that may help.
Wisconsin Farm Fresh Atlas – farms, markets, restaurants, stores – View Website
Local Dirt – find a farm – View Website
Local Harvest – local farms & events – View Website
Milwaukee County Winter Farmers Market – View Website
Wisconsin Farmers Market Association – find a market – View Website
Featured Farms
The following is a list of some local area farms. There are many benefits of pastured-raised or grass-fed meats and dairy. When working for the Oconomowoc Lake Club, we increased our local food purchases by 500% in 6 years. But it is much more than just dollars; it’s building relationships.
“Once you start, you never want to go back.” -JK.
Buying directly from farms helps in many ways. Farmers typically get 10-30% of the retail dollar; by buying directly from them, they receive 100%. That same money then recirculates 3 to 5 times in the local community. Instead of receiving farm gate prices or commodity prices, farms are paid a just and sustainable price for their food. Farmers are willing to grow unique and diverse foods for us. Some of our best food is grown just down the road, not halfway around the world. Farmers’ markets are one of the best ways to scout for new farmers but remember not all farmers go to farmer markets. Farmers can often lead you to other farmers.
“Finding a new farmer or locally grown food is like finding a new treasure.” -JK.
Rolling Meadows Sorghum Mill
Contact: Richard WittgreveBiographical Info
Richard became interested in sorghum syrup in 1984, when he could not find a jar of sorghum syrup to purchase. In 1985, he decided that he could produce his own syrup. It wasn’t until 1986 that he successfully raised and processed his first crop, 6 gallons total production. Over the years, through research and testing, his operation has grown. In the early 1990’s, he made the decision to be serious about syrup production, rather than just a hobby, and built his certified food-processing operation. In 1996, he started to build mechanical harvesting equipment, and today, his harvest is fully mechanical. In 1998, he installed a high-pressure steam boiler which allows him to do preheating and to cook by steam. Today, he produces over 1300 gallons annually. His assistant, Marcia, in charge of sales and marketing, sells to retail markets throughout the state of Wisconsin and does mail order throughout the United States. Marcia also spends considerable time at farm markets and special-event shows. Rich also owns Percheron draft horses and operates Queen Anne Carriage Rides, giving carriage and hay rides in his local resort town of Elkhart Lake.
Syrups, Honey, Vegetables, Bakery
On-Farm Sales, Farmers’ Markets, Mail Order, Delivery, Wholesale, Retail
“Once you start, you never want to go back.”
Chef Jack