Wilson Organic Farms, a family-run operation since 1848, remains committed to sustainability and conservation. The farm, managed by Chris Wilson and his family, was an early adopter of USDA-certified organic farming, making the transition in 1996.
“Sustainability is at the heart of everything we do,” Wilson said. “We want to ensure our land and water remain healthy for future generations.”
The farm operates as a closed system, producing nearly all its own feed and organic fertilizers. It has also embraced progressive conservation practices such as organic no-till, cover cropping, diverse crop rotations, and adaptive grazing.
“Organic no-till and diverse crop rotations have improved our soil structure, retained moisture, and reduced erosion,” Wilson explained. “Our adaptive grazing system also promotes biodiversity and builds organic matter in our pastures.”
Commitment to Conservation
Wilson Organic Farms is part of the Lafayette Ag Stewardship Alliance (LASA), a farmer-led conservation group dedicated to improving soil and water health. Through LASA, Wilson shares his experiences with sustainable farming and connects with like-minded farmers.
“Community is a core value for our farm,” Wilson said. “LASA brings together neighbors and farmers who share a dedication to environmental stewardship. Our goal is to help our region thrive with healthy soils and clean water.”
Tracking Progress
As part of LASA’s 2024 Member Conservation Practice Survey, Wilson contributed to tracking the group’s collective conservation impact. The survey, now in its seventh year, highlights measurable environmental benefits:
- 15,840 acres of cover crops planted
- 38,528 acres managed with no-till or strip-till farming
- 2,171 acres planted into cover crops (“planting green”)
- 45,088 acres tracked for nutrient management
These practices have resulted in significant environmental benefits, including:
- 234,340 pounds of phosphorus runoff prevented, reducing algae growth in local waters
- 121,754 tons of sediment loss prevented, equal to 12,175 dump trucks of soil
- 10,123 metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions reduced, equivalent to removing 2,410 cars from the road
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