J & B Chestnut Farm

John and Betty Wittrig have worked the 140 acres of land at J & B Chestnut Farm for the past 12 years. The entire family helps with the chestnut harvest, tree pruning and general orchard maintenance. Three generations of the family work together on the farm including John, Betty, Laura McPhail, Joseph McPhail (19), Thomas McPhail (17) and the family cat, Spook. J & B Chestnut Farm grows and sells certified organic chestnuts, shelled and packaged chestnut kernels, as well as chestnut flour. The farm has been certified organic by Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship for four years.

Why is growing organic a priority for your family?
We are interested in natural and organic products, concerned about toxic chemicals, and interested in producing wholesome food sustainably.

What is your favorite part of being an organic farmer?
We get to work together outdoors to produce a superior product in an ecologically sound, community-enhancing manner.

What's your least favorite part?
Paperwork!

Why should people buy organic products instead of other options?
They would be healthier, support sustainable farmers and a healthy environment.

What makes your farm special?
All three generations of our family love the farm and help with the work, and this gives us a sense of place.

Where do you want your business to be in the next year? 5 years? 10 years?
We want to keep doing exactly what we are doing, and maybe expand a little as chestnut production increases.

Where can consumers get your products?
J & B Chestnut Farm products can be found all over the country, including southeast Iowa, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Illinois, Texas, Indiana and Ohio.

For more information about J & B Chestnut Farm, call the Wittrigs at (319) 257-3377.