About Our Family Farm
The River Farm is our family homestead and lifelong passion to build an ecologically diverse, perennially resilient, productive farm business. As Northeast Indiana natives, we grew up farming on a generational family farm in Wells County and have a deep affection for our homeplace.
Our Values
Our land stewardship and day to day management prioritizes soil regeneration, species diversity, grass-fed/pastured livestock and the general principle that we as humans are a reciprocal part of nature and not separate from it.
We believe in biological, organic farming; that we are part of an interconnected system of life and have a direct effect on ecosystem health and therefore our own health. We do not use pesticides, herbicides or any other synthetic chemical inputs. Applying these principles, we strive to farm in a way that dignifies the health of our soil, our animals and those who eat from the farm’s bounty.
Our Vision
Our hope is to empower our family and community to grow, process and preserve clean food that regenerates the health of land and people. Robust networks of regenerative, family scale and worker owned farms were once the fabric of rural community life. We aspire to be a gathering place in the rediscovery of these crafts and collaborations.
What We Grow/Do
The River Farm operates four primary enterprises: organic vegetables/seasonal flowers, culinary mushrooms, grass-fed meats, and educational resources. We strive to connect our customers not only to delicious and nourishing food but also to the craft of preserving, growing and preparing ingredients from the farm.
Meet the Team
The River Farm team is the foundation of our success. We are driven by loving what we do, growing clean, delicious food and connecting with our farm customers and community.
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Caleb Fiechter
FARM PRODUCTION MANAGER
Caleb Fiechter has been farming since he was a young boy and took a particular interest in organic food production during his years in undergrad. Farming full time for the last 9 years, Caleb loves the challenge of solving problems every day and growing food for a living. The resident mushroom enthusiast, he is always willing to chat about mycology around a bonfire.
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Kelly Fiechter
FARM ADMINISTRATIVE MANAGER
Kelly Fiechter keeps the farm running smoothly with all its moving parts. A medicinal plant and flower enthusiast, Kelly is often responsible for the beauty around the farm. In addition to her behind the scenes work on the farm, she is also a practicing nurse midwife in the Fort Wayne area.
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Judah Fiechter
LIVESTOCK SUPPORT/SECURITY
At 9 years old, Judah is responsible for animal chores and is a budding entrepreneur. Helping with big harvests and animal jobs, he loves to build things and to help at the farmers market.
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Bekah Fiechter
PLANT WRANGLER/CREATIVE ASSISTANT
At 6 years old, Bekah is a free spirit and loves the wonders and mystery of nature. Keeping everyone grounded, you will often find her picking flowers, mushrooms and generally finding interesting objects around the farm.
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Ezra Fiechter
RESIDENT TASTE TESTER
All good food requires a discerning palate and at 1.5 years old, Ezra provides essential quality control on the farm. Rest assured, all food grown is thoroughly tested by this little guy.
