151 Johnson Lane
Raymond, IL 62560
(217) 229-3571
fjohnson@consolidated.net
On the 500 acres that make up Shoal Creek Farm, Floyd Johnson and family have been farming since 1934. Of that 72 years, Floyd has been continuing the tradition for the last 30 years. The next generation of Johnsons are involved too, Gabriell Nycole Johnson “Gabby” age 11, and Dakota Caitlyn Johnson “Cody” 13, help tend to the 11 cats, 1 dogs, 2 fish and they also help collect eggs. Floyd’s parents, Pat and Harold, are always there to help out however they can.
Floyd grows certified organic yellow corn, light hilum soybeans, soft red winter wheat, oats and rye. He also raises poultry for meat and eggs and is looking forward to adding lamb to his organic meat products. He currently has about 500 chickens on the farm.
Floyd is always looking for new markets for his products and wants to sell his meat directly to consumers. Interested customers should give the farm a call. If consumers want to find out more about the benefits of his pastured-raised poultry, they can check out the listing for Shoal Creek Farm at the website www.eatwild.com.
Why have you chosen to grow organic? Why is it a priority for you?
Less fear of chemicals, organic philosophy seems to look for solutions and not just bandaids for symptoms.
What is your favorite part of being and organic farmer?
Searching for the optimum mix of inputs and crops/animals to make a healthy soil which produces healthy crops that make healthy profits and ultimately healthy people.
What is your least favorite part?
Financial struggles of getting started and the social struggles of doing something radically different (growing organic) in a conventional farming community.
Why should people buy organic products instead of other options?
Organic isn’t always better, but I believe that organic done right is always better than conventional done right.
What makes your farm special?
I fell I have a good grasp of organic philosophy and I would like to do things right. I also want to set a good example for others to follow.
Updated 5/2006