In south-central Nebraska, a farm appears similar to others in the corn belt but stands out due to its unique farming approach that utilizes animal manure as a natural fertilizer, avoiding synthetic products entirely. This 9,000-acre farm is operated by Belltown Farms, a Philadelphia-based corporation dedicated to organic agriculture. Belltown recently made headlines by acquiring this farm near Holstein and four others in southwest Nebraska for $41 million, positioning itself as the second-largest buyer of Nebraska farmland from 2018 to 2022. With nearly 19,000 acres in Nebraska, Belltown represents about two-thirds of its total farmland portfolio across the U.S., which includes properties in Illinois, Michigan, Texas, and New York.
Unlike many other large farmland buyers, Belltown directly manages its operations instead of leasing the land, focusing exclusively on organic crops. This challenges the notion that organic farming is limited to small, quirky operations. Brian Halweil, a representative for Belltown, emphasized the company’s commitment to producing food for people and animals rather than converting land for fuel production.
The company has significantly impacted Nebraska’s organic sector, becoming one of the largest organic grain producers in the state. With plans for further expansion to meet the growing demand for organic products, Belltown is dedicated to sustainable practices, including effective water conservation and improved soil health. The company’s strategic choice of Nebraska highlights the fertile farmland and secure water rights available in the region, making it a favorable location for organic farming.
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