Wallendal Farms – Pumpkin picking and lots of laughs in Adams County

Traveling to Adams County is something that I look forward to every month. From visiting the Adams County Fair, to devouring corn and taters, I know that I will always be greeted by smiles and familiar faces.

I recently met Megan Wallendal when she gave me a tour of the Grand Marsh Corn N’ Tater Festival. Her magnetic personality and knowledge about Wisconsin agriculture is inspiring.

Recently the Adams-Friendship FFA and I visited Megan and the team at Wallendal Farms. They farm 3200 acres of conventional and organic irrigated farmland. They are a 3rd generation farm who recently (and successfully) transitioned to the next generation. 2017 marks the 50th year of the farm and in those 50 years they have grown over 35 different vegetable crops! Their core values are: Innovators, Practicing Integrity, Adaptability, Uphold Family, and Partner of Choice.

The Wallendal’s farm 211 acres of pumpkins. From decorative squash to Jack-o-lanterns, they provide thousands of pumpkins to Walmart, Costco, Aldi, Menards and many other retailers.

Picking pumpkins is no easy task. It takes a lot of attention to detail and a lot of planning. It also takes a lot of hand-eye coordination and some muscles too!

After we worked up a sweat, we went into the processing plant where they wash and sort the pumpkins into different bins. We learned that different retailers have various expectations and requirements for pumpkins. I found my perfect pumpkin (pink!) and was amazed at how fast and efficient the entire team is in sorting and packaging.

Thank you Megan and the entire team at Wallendal Farms for your hospitality. I had a blast learning about this special crop and continue to be amazed at the diversity of Wisconsin agriculture.