What the Wilson Family Has Learned from Farming Organic Since the ’90s

Josh Elwood, Staff Writer
Wilson Family Organic Farms, Customer

Wilson Farm is a multi-generational family operation with deep roots in agriculture and a long view of what it takes to farm sustainably. In the mid-1990s, the Wilson family made the decision to transition to organic farming—a move that required patience, commitment, and a willingness to rethink how every part of the operation worked together.

Over the years, they’ve learned that organic success doesn’t come from a single practice or product. It comes from managing the whole system. Healthier cows start with better feed, and better feed starts with strong genetics and sound agronomic decisions. Every choice—from crop planning to harvest—has a ripple effect across the farm.

Without herbicides or pesticides as part of the toolbox, crop rotations become essential. Rotations help manage weeds, protect soil health, and maintain productivity over time. But rotations alone aren’t enough. Seed selection matters just as much, as does having agronomic support that understands organic systems and can help fine-tune decisions in real-world conditions.

For the Wilson family, partnering with Albert Lea Seed has played an important role in making their organic system work year after year. From selecting the right varieties to navigating seasonal challenges, consistent agronomic guidance has helped support both crop performance and long-term goals.

Strong alfalfa production has been a cornerstone of the operation, contributing to feed quality, herd health, and overall system balance. Just as important is the shared mindset behind the partnership—one rooted in stewardship, long-term thinking, and a commitment to doing things the right way.

Both the Wilson family and the Albert Lea Seed family take pride in what they’ve built together: a partnership grounded in trust, experience, and the belief that organic farming, managed thoughtfully, can deliver lasting results for generations to come.