Meet the Candidate - Mikayla Flyte: Celebrating Every Season of Wisconsin Agriculture!

Growing up on a diverse fruit, vegetable, and livestock farm in Wisconsin continues to have a profound impact on my connection to nature and the changing seasons. From the anticipation of berry-picking, planning farm-to-table dinners, visiting community events with Melvin the Moo Truck, attending the Dane County Farmer’s markets or helping market the fall corn maze—I am incredibly fortunate to have found endless opportunities for creativity, all thanks to the rich legacy of Wisconsin agriculture and family.

The seasons change quickly with the bustle of fall potato harvest and pumpkin patch adventures quickly turning into walks with my mom through the cattle shed and around the frozen blueberry patch. In these quiet moments we reflect on the success and failures of the past year and chart a plan to be better the next. Being involved in these conversations with my family has taught me to notice the world around me, always looking for the next idea or story.

A passion for growth has been a key factor in my education and athletic journey. I earned a degree in English-Education with minors in Spanish and Entrepreneurship from Ripon College before pursuing a master’s degree in sport psychology. After being a student-athlete for 5 years, I have shared my motivation for running with new college students as a Graduate Assistant coach. I have drawn many parallels between working hard on the farm and logging miles on foot, while appreciating a seasonal landscape!

I am proud to be a part of the 95% percent of farms in Wisconsin that are family-owned. Each summer I return home to be fully immersed in the harvest and distribution of hydroponic vegetables, strawberries, and blueberries. I love attending Saturday markets in Madison, because so many wonderful specialty crops and products are represented in one central location highlighting the best of the season! It is a perfect opportunity to showcase our agricultural story and connect consumers with their food. Our farm is always changing in alignment with the innovative spirit of Wisconsin agriculture. My family encouraged my dream to manage an ice cream truck, affectionately known as “Melvin the Moo Truck.” One of my favorite things about Melvin is that we serve Chocolate Shoppe Ice Cream, which supports the Dairy industry and another Wisconsin family-owned business!

When my family travels, we make it a priority to visit local agribusinesses. Sampling cherries in Door County, touring lavender farms on Washington island, picking apples in Gay’s Mills, and having fun at Feltz Dairy Store in Steven’s Point inspires us to enhance our own farm while appreciating the pride Wisconsin producers take in sharing their expertise. Choosing to invest your time and money locally ensures you'll receive top-quality products and unforgettable experiences. While you may think of agriculture as the food you eat, it is also the places you visit, people you meet and activities you enjoy. Wisconsin has something special to offer you in every season!