50 Years of Success in Farming
Innovation, common sense, and hard work have contributed to Michael Farms’ success in providing nutritious, top-quality, fresh vegetables throughout Ohio and surrounding areas for more than 50 years. Doug and Phyllis Michael started the operation at the current location in 1958. The Michaels were the first farm in Ohio to install a center pivot irrigation system in 1968. Michael Farms has grown to be one of the largest vegetable farms in the state with over 2,500 acres. Doug and Phyllis’ sons Scott and Kurt currently manage the farm, encompassing the production of sweet corn, green beans, potatoes, and cabbage. Both brothers hold Agriculture Production Degrees from the Ohio State University. Some of the next generation have also joined the operation.
Michael Farms employs as many as 120 workers during the harvest season. Dedicated to family values, their employees, and their community, the Michaels continue to prosper and excel in farming. The family has been very active in local, state, and national commodity and civic organizations. Michael Farms combines years of vegetable growing experience with the newest farming technology to meet the demands of modern business.
Michael Farms has been a past recipient of the Environmental Protection Agency’s Environmental Stewardship Award, a distinction granted to farms that work to make sure that their operations are sustainable with a focus on the environment as well as the consumer. The Michaels received the Champaign County farm Family of the year; and American Vegetable Grower’s National “Grower Achievement Award” in 2003 for excellence in food quality and safety procedures, industry leadership and community outreach. Michael Farms was awarded the Springfield area 2014 Entrepreneurial Business Award for their business leadership role in the Clark and Champaign County region.
