Leaders of the Land®: Pete Badtke

Earth Day is a celebration of sustainability. At Badtke Family Farm, sustainability means building soil health and conserving water resources.  

Pete Badtke farms in Ripon, Wis. He raises 300 acres of corn, soybeans, winter wheat and alfalfa. He also raises feeder cattle. 

How do farmers view sustainability? 

Pete wants to create healthy soil and conserve the water for the next generation on his farm. He wants to investigate the return on investment of implementing various conservation practices. Pete recognizes that these practices might not always have a high return, but it will be healthier for the soil and more sustainable in the long run. 

How do farmers manage cover crops? 

Pete started experimenting with rye as a cover crop ten years ago. Green Lake County Farm Bureau’s partnership with the Green Lake Association Field Day inspired Pete to try new things and work with other farmers in his community to network and grow together. During the field day, area farmers showcase various conservation practices for the community.  

Managing cover crops really changes the game for Pete. Application plans need to be well thought out in advance to be successful.  

Pete thrives on challenges and enjoys thinking outside the box. He shared that he rented a drill from the county and ended up over-applying cover crop seed. He is excited to now have his own drill so he can plant when he wants to. He has learned from previous challenges and is excited to try new things.  

What technology helps farmers be sustainable? 

Pete recently invested in auto-steer for two of his tractors. He is looking forward to using this technology to more precisely manage planting and spraying.  

Pete is excited to continue experimenting with different cover crop blends and timing of planting.  

Who do farmers partner with to advance sustainability? 

Pete recently joined the Fox-Wolf Demo Farms project. The program provides resources and guidance for farmers to implement conservation practices. Pete also works with Sand County Foundation to measure the impact of his management practices. 

Wisconsin Farm Bureau has been helpful in Pete’s efforts to advance sustainability on his farm. Pete was a member of the committee that helped to write WFBF’s sustainability mission statement. He appreciates the opportunities to network with other farmers and sees the impact of conservation-related policy advocacy firsthand.  

Green Lake County Farm Bureau is close to starting their own farmer-led watershed group. Pete is excited for the possibilities to connect with other farmers about sustainability and continue to try new things.

 

 

---

Leaders of the Land® is Wisconsin Farm Bureau’s brand for sharing sustainability stories. Monthly profiles highlight farmers across Wisconsin working hard to meet their environmental, social and economic goals.