FarmHer Profile: Michele Miller, Miller Family Farm

Years farming: I was born and raised on a farm. Started  my own calves at age 9. My dad and generations before also farmed, milked cows, raised hogs and chickens.

Products: Beef, pork, chicken, eggs, and flower bouquets; our best-sellers include beef and eggs.

Reason for farming: It’s a family tradition; farming is in my blood. From a young age, I rode with my dad on an open-cab tractor out in the field. He would take me along to the auctions to pick out new calves, which became my responsibility to bottle feed and nurture. This experience sparked a lifelong passion for animals in me. Along with the rest of my seven brothers and sisters, working the 1,000 acres and farrow-to-finish hog operation, there was always a lot of inspiration around me.

Thoughts on being a woman farmer: I rely on my husband and son for support, allowing me to do my best. I have the dream, they add the support.

Biggest joy: The greatest joy for me is sharing my love of farming with my kids. It’s so fulfilling to see my dreams come to life with the calves born on our land and the joy on people’s faces when I give them a bouquet of fresh, handpicked flowers. I take pride in providing fresh food from our farm to the community.

Main challenge: Balancing all the responsibilities on the farm and family. Marketing and selling is also a challenge for me, as you must wear all the hats.

Future plans: We recently acquired a 65-acre farm. I’m excited to grow our herd, expand our egg-laying flock, and enhance our hay and flower fields.

Regenerative practices: We have been planting new hayfields on the 45 acres that have been row crops for years, to improve sustainability. Also rotational grazing of our cattle and chickens.

Overall vision: We are committed to nurturing the land and passing down farming traditions to the next generation.