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The St. Joseph County Soil & Water Conservation District is pleased to bring the community to the farmer again for our Third Annual Meet Your Farmer gathering!We have been to a large-scale row crop farm. We have been to a small, market farm. And now we're heading to a perennial crop farm - The Blueberry Ranch in Mishawaka!
A Legacy of Stewardship
Established in 1953, The Blueberry Ranch is one of the oldest u-pick blueberry operations in the Midwest. Current owner, John Nelson, purchased the farm in 1981. In 1991, Nelson introduced organic blueberries to the farm, and by 2009 the entire ranch was 100% certified organic.
This commitment isn’t just about labels; it’s about the soil beneath the bushes. During our visit, we will explore:
- The Power of Perennials: How long-term crops like blueberry bushes stabilize soil structure and promote a thriving underground ecosystem.
- Organic Impact: The specific ways organic certification and chemical-free practices enhance nutrient density and microbial life in the soil
- Community Food Security: The vital role this “agri-treasure” plays in providing fresh, local food to the Mishawaka area.
Join us for an evening of education, community and a shared meal in the heart of the farm. This offers a chance to hear directly from John Nelson about the rewards and challenges of maintaining an organic legacy.
Meet Your Farmer 2026 will be held on Thursday, June 18, from 5:30 to 7:30 pm. Dinner is provided and space is limited. Registration is required. ww.stjosephswcd.org/myfgathering.com
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Event Venue
Blueberry Ranch, 12031 Day Rd, Mishawaka, IN 46545-5303, United States
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