Carolyn Olson, an organic crop farmer in Lyon County, southwest Minnesota, described this year’s harvest as smooth and largely trouble-free. Despite the challenges often associated with organic farming, Olson reported minimal machinery issues and few stressful moments during the busy harvest season.
“We had some very minimal breakdowns, and I like to joke that we had minimal breakdowns on machinery or mentally. So that’s always good,” Olson said. Her lighthearted reflection underscores the importance of resilience and preparation in managing an organic farm, where both equipment and human stamina are critical to a successful harvest.
This year’s yields were a welcome change for Olson and her team. After enduring several consecutive years of drought conditions, the additional moisture this season offered a noticeable difference. “It’s hard to know what to expect. We’ve had drought so many years in a row it was kind of odd to be worrying about too much water at some points in the year. But we were happy with our yields, and looking forward to the next season and what that brings,” she said.
Olson grows a variety of organic crops and places a strong emphasis on sustainable practices. One key aspect of her farming operation is fall tillage, which she says plays an essential role in preparing fields for the next planting season. In organic systems, where synthetic fertilizers and herbicides are not used, careful soil management is crucial to maintain fertility, control weeds, and ensure strong crop growth.
“Fall tillage gives us an opportunity to manage residues, improve soil structure, and prepare the seedbed for next year’s crops,” Olson explained. By investing time and effort into post-harvest soil preparation, farmers like Olson can help maintain soil health, reduce erosion, and promote long-term productivity in organic cropping systems.
In addition to her farming work, Olson serves as vice president of the Minnesota Farm Bureau. Her involvement in the organization allows her to advocate for agricultural issues at both the local and state level, particularly those affecting organic and sustainable farming operations. Olson believes that sharing knowledge and experiences is a vital part of helping the farming community adapt to changing weather conditions and market demands.
Reflecting on the year’s harvest, Olson expressed optimism for the future. “We were happy with our yields, and looking forward to the next season and what that brings,” she said. Her outlook demonstrates the resilience and adaptability required of modern farmers, especially those who focus on organic practices, which demand careful attention to natural resources and environmental stewardship.
Despite the ups and downs of farming, Olson’s positive experience this year highlights how preparation, experience, and sustainable practices can contribute to a successful harvest. By focusing on soil health, strategic tillage, and thoughtful crop management, organic farmers in southwest Minnesota are demonstrating that it is possible to navigate the challenges of weather variability while achieving strong yields.
As farmers wrap up harvest and turn their attention to fall fieldwork, Olson’s approach serves as a reminder of the importance of both planning and adaptability in agriculture. Her commitment to organic practices and community involvement continues to make a difference, both on her farm and across Minnesota’s agricultural landscape.
