Visit a Farm with Your Favorite Bloggers
We get it. Being on lockdown — or close to it — is tough. Even without a global pandemic, things like weather, budget or simply being short on time can keep us from having adventures. If you or your family are itching to having fun exploring something new, we have a great way for you to experience a slice of life on Kansas farms — the Farm Food Tour.
The annual Farm Food Tour, hosted by several of our partners (Kansas Soybean Commission, Kansas Pork Association and Kansas Farm Bureau), helps bloggers learn about life on various Kansas farms. Let’s just say the “tour” in 2020 looked a bit different from years past. Instead of having a multi-day adventure for influencers to drop in on farms and restaurants around the state, the visits took place one-on-one via video, phone and email. Still, bloggers were able to enjoy a range of insights and experiences as they virtually got acquainted with farmers. And we want to share their experiences with you. So, sit back and meet some (maybe) new-to-you farmers and bloggers who explored a little more of our great state.
Eleanor’s Sunflower Farm
Kirsten Maxwell got a taste of adventure from Laura Shoup who runs Eleanor’s, an agritourism venue, alongside her sunflower and soybean farm in Scranton. Eleanor’s hosts visitors for glorious sunflower blooms in August, a Christmas festival in winter and for private events year-round. Get a taste of spending time away from it all at this charming spot.
Moreland Farms
Sarah Scoop talked with James Moreland about life on his family farm in south central Kansas where they grow soybeans, cotton, wheat and corn, and raise cattle. There’s a lot to tend to and it’s incredible that their products end up both locally and as far away as China. “It’s a lot of work and a lot of hard work, but at the end of the day we sure enjoy it,” James said.
Wells M-M Dairy
Kat Benson, a registered dietitian, connected with Heidi Wells, a dairy farmer in Cheney who is also a registered dietitian. Together, they discussed some of the misconceptions about dairy that swirl on social media. Kat debunks myths about dairy and inflammation, hormones and antibiotics. Bottom line? “Dairy CAN be a very economical way to get in quality protein, get in some fat and carbs, as well as micronutrients that can help overall nutrient status,” Kat said.
High Plains Harvesting
Cat Poland bonded with Laura Haffner about motherhood and life on Laura’s crop farm in Park — and beyond. Laura’s family does custom harvesting, meaning they travel from Texas to Canada to help other farmers harvest crops like wheat, canola and peas. When they’re done, they head back to Kansas where they harvest their own corn, soybeans and grain sorghum. As Cat and Laura talked about everything from business to faith, Cat dubbed Laura “Wonder Woman.” It’s no wonder!
Goering Farms
Vaishali Sharda and Jenny Goering’s conversation covered everything from the what, how and why of life on Jenny’s family farms. (That’s right — plural! They have two farms in McPherson and Kearney). Jenny helps the businesses run smoothly with everything from paperwork to operating farm equipment. Jenny’s family grows corn, soybeans and wheat, and raises cattle, chickens, goats, ducks and more. Bonus: Jenny shares her recipe for Kansas whole wheat bread!
KCK Farms
Sophie Sadler connected with Katie Carothers and the two moms talked about daily life on Katie’s ranch in Anthony, as well as some of the unique challenges and blessings of farm life during the pandemic. When they discovered they share German ancestry, Sophie was inspired to share a recipe for German mulled wine roast called Glühweinbraten, which features chuck roast. Mmmm.
Several other bloggers participated in the virtual event. To hear their stories and explore more posts and pictures on social media, check out #FarmFoodTour.
More Virtual Tours and Learning Resources
