Live from CGA 2023: Tom Wahl on Chestnut Farming and Crop Diversity

November 29, 2024

Recorded live at the 2023 Chestnut Growers of America Conference in Columbia, Missouri, this episode of Branching Out: Growing Together features Tom Wahl of Red Fern Farm. He’s a Midwest pioneer in chestnut farming and agroforestry.

Hosted by Melanie Jones, this conversation explores how Tom built a diversified, regenerative farm from the ground up. You’ll hear his insights on soil, crop planning, chestnut marketing, and what it really takes to farm sustainably.

Tom and his partner Kathy Dice started Red Fern Farm in 1987 in southeast Iowa. Since then, they’ve focused on growing what works for their land—fruits, berries, and especially chestnuts. Today, Red Fern Farm spans more than 15 acres and serves as a resource hub for other growers.

In addition to farming, Tom is a trusted broker and advisor. His practical advice has helped growers across the Midwest scale their orchards and build sustainable farm businesses.

Tom also emphasizes the power of crop diversity. For example, planting multiple species helps reduce pest risks and spreads out seasonal labor needs. As a result, their system is both resilient and efficient.

During the conference, Tom joined a live panel on chestnut marketing. He shared the stage with Roger Blackwell, Prairie Grove Chestnut Growers, and other leaders. Together, they discussed how growers are getting chestnuts from grove to market—and what’s working best.

🌐 Learn more at redfernfarm.com

🌰 In This Episode:

- How Red Fern Farm became a Midwest chestnut incubator
- Why crop diversity improves resilience and long-term success
- Tips for marketing and selling chestnuts at scale
- Real-time insights from the 2023 CGA Conference community