Rick Adamski and Valerie Dantoin, operators of Full Circle Community Farm, are finalists for the Wisconsin Leopold Conservation Award. This honor highlights their dedication to sustainable farming and their innovative conservation practices. Their family-owned farm has been in the Adamski family for over 100 years.
“My grandparents purchased the farm in 1900, and it has been a mixed farming operation ever since,” Rick shared. “Dairy was the primary enterprise at the beginning, but we have adapted our practices over the years to meet changing conditions and demands.”
Since taking over the farm in the late ’80s, Rick and Valerie have adopted several sustainable practices. They transitioned to certified organic farming in 2003 and stopped dairy operations in 2014. Now, they focus on raising grass-fed beef and direct marketing. Their son Andrew has joined the operation to produce fresh vegetables for market, further diversifying their offerings.
“Managed grazing has been integral to our operation since 1987. It allows us to feed our livestock while improving soil health and sustainability,” Rick explained. “The decision to adopt managed grazing was driven by the need to reduce inputs and enhance profitability while also being environmentally responsible.”
The couple has seen remarkable results from their conservation efforts, including increased organic matter levels in their soil and improved water retention capacity. “We’ve participated in various testing projects, including groundwater studies, and have achieved low phosphorus runoff on our farm, demonstrating the effectiveness of our practices,” Valerie added.
Full Circle Farm also features diverse habitats, including wetlands and woodlands, which promote biodiversity and support local wildlife. “We believe in sharing our land with native species,” said Rick. “We participate in programs that create habitats for pollinators and grassland birds, recognizing the importance of these ecosystems.”
Being named a finalist for the Leopold Conservation Award is both an honor and an opportunity for Rick and Valerie to share their story and inspire others. “There are many dedicated farmers out there striving to uphold land ethics,” Rick noted. “As finalists, we hope to demonstrate that farming can coexist with environmental stewardship.”
Valerie emphasized the importance of a long-term vision for sustainable farming. “We must think about what our farmland will look like in 200 years. It’s crucial to sequester carbon in the soil and ensure our practices are sustainable for future generations.”
