West Lafayette, IN – Indiana farmers and agriculture enthusiasts can take part in a series of free farm tours this August, offering a close-up look at innovative crop and livestock operations across West Central and Northwestern Indiana.
According to the Diverse Corn Belt Project, three farm tours are scheduled throughout August, spotlighting five farms that have expanded their enterprises with new products and practices. These tours will provide hands-on learning opportunities, with farmers and invited experts discussing subjects ranging from organic crop production to biodiversity in farm fields.
The first tour, set for Tuesday, Aug. 12, will feature DeSutter Farms in Fountain County and Mills Farms in Montgomery County, focusing on organic field crops and grazed cattle. Experts including Keith Schilling, Thomas Doyle and Matthew Streeter of the Iowa Geological Survey, as well as Purdue University entomologists Christian Krupke and Coy St. Clair, are expected to address how farming practices influence groundwater and ground-dwelling insect diversity. Carmen Blubaugh, an agroecologist with the University of Illinois, will discuss the effects of farming methods on weeds and beneficial insects.
On Wednesday, Aug. 13, Van Kley’s Blueberries and Henning’s Farm and Greenhouses in Jasper County will open their gates to highlight blueberry production, organic grains and fall mum cultivation. Speakers from Purdue University will share insights into organic transitions and farm diversification.
The final tour will take place Tuesday, Aug. 27, at Living Prairie Farms in White County, showcasing organic popcorn, sunflowers and small grains. Purdue doctoral researcher Christine Elliott will present new research on acoustic monitoring for farm health.
Each tour includes a complimentary lunch. Registration is available online or by contacting Summer Brinkman at 219-866-5741, or via email at brow1744@purdue.edu for special accommodations.
The tours are sponsored by the Diverse Corn Belt Project, Purdue Extension, Indiana Organic Network, and USDA.
This article was produced by a journalist and may include AI-assisted input. All content is reviewed for accuracy and fairness.
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