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Illinois crops and livestock farm named Organic Farmers of the Year

A diversified crops and livestock operation in central Illinois has been named the 2017 MOSES (Midwest Organic and Sustainable Education Service) Organic Farmers of the Year.

The Bishop family operates PrairiErth Farm near Atlanta where they grow corn, soybeans, oats, wheat, forages, vegetables, fruit and flowers in addition to raising cattle, pigs and chickens.

Hans Bishop says running such a diverse farm that’s also organic presents some unique challenges.

“(we) Really wouldn’t want to have it any other way because that’s what our customers want, and I think that there’s more people that want that.  So we’re willing to do what it takes.”

He tells Brownfield partnering with nature is an important piece of their management plan.

“Things like liquid fish for nitrogen and what-not to keep crops robust, healthy and less susceptible to disease and insect pressure.”

The Bishops farm 300 acres and have been certified organic since 2004.

Hans’ father Dave says the MOSES award means a lot to him and his family.

“It’s an incredible honor.  It’s really recognition of a lot of years of hard work and it’s very, very much appreciated.”

Dave and Hans Bishop farm alongside Hans’ wife Katie and his brother Graham.