In beautiful Northern Wisconsin nestled amidst the Chequamegon -Nicolet National Forest, known for its crystal clear lakes and array of wildlife species, lies James Lake Farms, a premier organic cranberry grower for Naturipe Farms. Owners John and Nora Stauner believe their commitment to organic practices has had a positive impact on the health of the rich ecosystem they manage.  The Stauner family vision is to provide a great place to work and raise their families, to manage the land in a sustainable fashion and to provide a healthy product to consumers.

“As organic farmers, we believe in protecting the natural integrity of the food we grow and the land on which we grow it.”

The James Lake Farms organic cranberry marsh grows five different fruit varieties across 64 acres of marsh beds. Originally started in the 1950s, James Lake Farms has a rich history of growing and farming innovations, and is committed to continuing this tradition by adopting the best and most effective organic growing methods.

Sustainability does not end at the farm according to their son Ben Riker. Ben the oldest of the Stauner’s three children, is the assistant farm manager and lives on the farm with his wife Ann and their two children. Ben, a veteran, who served 8 years in the Wisconsin National Guard and was deployed twice to the Middle East, is a member and advocate of the Farmers Veteran Coalition whose mission is mobilizing veterans to feed America.

The Coalition aspires to lead the national effort of connecting veterans to agriculture. They believe that veterans possess the unique skills and character that is needed to strengthen rural communities and create sustainable food systems for all.  The Farmers Veteran’s Coalition provides tools to help our military transition from military-service to the many career opportunities available in the Agriculture industry.