For this edition of our #LiveFull series, we’re highlighting Luke Peterson of A-Frame Farm - organic farmer and Simple Mills sunflower grower! For Luke, living full is all about collaboration in pursuit of an agricultural system that puts the health of the land and people first. 

 

Live Full is all about finding your groove and getting things done so that you can feel your best. It's about finding what fuels you to feel like you can accomplish anything. It's about living your best life, whether that be through energizing foods, time outside or anything else that fuels your passions.

 

Read on to find out how Luke Peterson embodies Live Full!

 

What got you started in farming? 

Initially we wanted to have an occupation that allowed me to have flexibility for childcare and a way of life in the country with Ali (my wife) being in healthcare and having a more demanding and rigid schedule. 

 

What makes you most excited to be involved in Simple Mills’ direct trade program?

It gives me the opportunity to talk about the reality of regenerative farming. It’s not very often that farmers have the opportunity to voice their experiences and realities to buyers. Working together ensures that we do our best for each other and keep a long-term, sustainable relationship that allows us to keep sunflowers in our crop rotation and keep a reliable local supply for Simple Mills. 

 

What do you enjoy most about growing sunflowers?

I enjoy the diversity it brings to the farm. Sunflowers cycle different nutrients. The deep tap roots break up compaction. They bring pollinators and beneficial insects to the farm. They bring beauty to our land.

 

What do you do when you’re not on the farm? 

Quite frankly, I’m always on the farm. We have such a diverse rotation that keeps us busy planting and harvesting continuously throughout the growing season. Having livestock, planting covers, putting up hay, and weed management keep us home. I do enjoy chainsaw carving when I get the time in the winter. 

 

 What’s been the most rewarding part of your work? 

The people we meet and relationships that we build in collaboration to create a new system of agriculture. 

 

 What does a typical day look like for you? 

There really are no typical days on the farm. On any given day I can be planting, tine weeding, cutting hay, moving cattle, fixing machinery all while lugging along kids who love to help! 

 

What does ‘living full’ mean to you and what is something you do that helps you live full?

To me, to “live full” means I’m continuously pushing the envelope on building a sustainable way to grow food that puts the land and people first. 

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