Farmers, producers, consumers, and anyone interested in connecting with Iowa’s

organic community and learning more about organic dairy production are encouraged to join the Iowa Organic Association and Kalona SuperNatural at 9 a.m. on Thursday, July 25 at the Kalona Historical Village.

This organic dairy processing field day will give attendees the opportunity to explore two of Kalona SuperNatural’s renowned creameries: the Farmers Creamery, known for its production of fluid milk and butter products, and the Kalona Creamery, where the acclaimed Cream-top Yogurt, fudge, ice cream, and world-famous Squeaky Cheese Curds are crafted. During the tour, Phil Forbes, Farm Liaison, will share

insights into the farms that collaborate with Kalona SuperNatural and discuss the company’s expansion efforts to support more farmers in organic dairy farming.

Kalona SuperNatural, founded in 2004 by Bill Evans, has been a steadfast supporter of small farms and organic agriculture. Their commitment to minimal processing and organic production models ensures high-quality dairy products while promoting environmental sustainability and supporting small family farms. “We hope to educate and inform folks at this field day about the complexities of organic dairy processing and the benefits of organic dairy in one’s diet,” said Phil.

Organic continues to be the fastest growing agricultural sector in the United States. Consumers are increasingly choosing products and practices that enhance and protect our communities and our planet. Organic dairy and eggs are the fourth-largest category in the organic food market and account for over 8% of all dairy and egg sales. Milk and cream sales were up almost 5% to $4.2 billion as reported in the 2023 Organic Industry Survey produced by the Organic Trade Association.

Phil and Kalona SuperNatural are part of Midwest TOPP’s Organic Mentorship Program, a free program that pairs seasoned, experienced organic farmers with new, beginning farmers in transition to help them navigate the change on their farms. If you are interested in organic dairy farming and need a little extra support, be sure to attend this field day and reach out to IOA about your interest in working with Phil and Kalona SuperNatural.

Every year IOA plans a series of field days that address topics of interest to Iowa’s organic community. “Field Days are a fantastic way to connect with other experienced organic farmers and businesses – all eager and willing to offer support to anyone exploring organic production,” said Roz Lehman, IOA executive director.

The field day and facility tour are free. Registration for the farm-to-table lunch following the field day is $15 for IOA members and $25 for non-members - please RSVP by Monday, July 22.

For more information or to register for the Kalona SuperNatural Organic Dairy Processing Field Day, please visit https://www.iowaorganic.org/fieldday_organicdairyprocessing or contact Ethan Book, TOPP Outreach & Education Coordinator, at ethan@iowaorganic.org or 641-321-3352.

Funding for the 2024 Field Day series has been provided, in part, by the USDA Midwest Transition to Organic Partnership Program (TOPP). Any opinions, findings, conclusions, or recommendations expressed are those of the organizer(s) and do not necessarily reflect the view of the U.S. Department of Agriculture.