RuthAnn and her family live in Northeast Iowa. She and her husband Elvin have been married for 24 years, have 7 children, 2 sons-in-laws, and 1 grandson. Five of the children still live at home. RuthAnn and her husband have been homesteading on their 21-acre homestead since 2001. They seek to preserve the self-sufficient lifestyle of their Mennonite Heritage for the next generation by involving their children in every aspect of the homestead, from raising and harvesting the meat they consume, gardening and preserving to fill the family’s larder, processing the dairy from the family milk cow, plus the many other skills that develop the character, integrity and relationships of a family that desires to bring glory and honor to their Heavenly Father.
You-Tube: youtube@ruthannzimm.com
IG: @ruthannzimm
Cooking From Scratch 101
Engaging Your Children on the Homestead

Dr. Patrick Jones is a practicing veterinarian, clinical herbalist, traditional naturopath and sought-after author and lecturer. He is the founder of the HomeGrown Herbalist School of Botanical Medicine. His lecture style has been described as a cross between John Christopher and Steve Martin. When you leave his class, your brain will be full and your sides will be sore from laughing. His engaging and down-to-Earth style will leave you feeling truly excited and empowered to use these wonderful plants. Because of his veterinary credentials, Dr. Jones has had the opportunity to use herbs on all sorts of cases that would not typically be addressed by herbalists. Rattlesnake bites, gunshot wounds, serious infections and systemic illnesses of all kinds make up his daily herbal practice for man and beast. Because of the miracles he’s seen over the years, Dr. Jones has an evangelical zeal to teach others about herbal medicine. His book The HomeGrown Herbalist and his school emphasize self-reliant herbalism and being plant-based rather than product based. Dr. Jones and his wife LoriAnn are the parents of 15 (mostly adopted) children. They live in Filer, Idaho. More info at HomeGrownHerbalist.net.
Ten Plants That Can Change Your Life
Livestock Health: Principles, Practices, etc.
Herbal First Aid for Man & Beast

A slave is one who waits for someone to come and free him.” — Ezra Pound.
My homesteading journey started with marrying my wife, a Blue Ridge Mountain goat of a woman and me being too stubborn to let her go. Four daughters and two built from scratch homesteads later I have come to the conclusion I would not change it for the world.
My area of expertise is primarily solar power, which I have written an article for in Backwoods Home Magazine. I have also taught solar at my off-grid home for 5 years, helping other people to also become energy independent. My real passion however rests in the Idea of the new homesteading legacy movement of the middle class whereby people become producers and independent, and in doing so, become a new and thriving branch thriving branch in their own family tree, where hope and possibilities are grown to change our family and country. We currently live in the loess hills of Mondamin Iowa, where we are working on building our geothermal, solar powered “Green House in the snow” project on our 16 acres of land.
Building Your Legacy
DIY Solar for Everyone, From Small to Large

Monty is the descendant of generations of ranchers and farmers but now keeps honeybees and grows vegetables in his suburban backyard. 
He’s a student of natural beekeeping, embracing the wisdom of giants such as Dr. Leo Sharashkin, Les Crowder and Thomas Seeley.  He came into beekeeping as an outsider and saw that current conventional beekeeping practices are based more on the beekeeper’s objectives than the honeybees’ nature.  It’s his belief that returning to a more natural model of beekeeping can benefit both the bees and the keeper.  He shares information about his hives and garden as “Suburban Sodbuster” on YouTube, Facebook and Instagram and through his website, suburbansodbuster.com.
The Fascinating Life of Bees
Keeping Bees Doesn’t Have to be Hard

I’m a DIY dynamo on a mission to sprinkle a little sustainability  magic into my life!  As a proud mom of four energetic kiddos, I’m all about crafting a healthier haven for my little crew.  You’ll catch me whipping up my own soaps, lotions, chapsticks, and room sprays, plus cooking meals from scratch like a culinary wizard!
We call a cozy 6 acre homestead in Birmingham, Iowa our happy place, where our cows, chickens, rabbits, and goats roam free.  Right now, we’re all hands on deck growing our own veggies, herbs, meat, and dairy – and of course, raising some intelligent, love-filed humans along the way! 
Toxic-Free Living:
DIY Skincare & Cleaning

Meet Sherelyn Hornick, a retired nurse turned passionate baker with a flair for delicious creations! With years of experience and a love for baking, Sherelyn decided to open a state-licensed bakery right in her own home. Her journey from healthcare to homemade treats is as inspiring as it is mouth-watering!
Married with four children and four grandkids (and one on the way!), Sherelyn brings warmth and expertise to everything she bakes. Join her session to hear her story, learn baking tips straight from a pro, and discover what it takes to turn a love of baking into a licensed home business. Whether you’re a seasoned baker or just starting out, you’ll leave inspired and ready to try something new in your own kitchen. Don’t miss this opportunity to connect with a baker who’s as passionate about people as she is about pastries!
Time Saving Tips in Your Kitchen
How to Make Your Own Mixes

Hi, I’m Lori from Davis County. My husband David and I share our lives with our five kids, nine grandkids, about 30 chickens, one turkey, and a dog on our little slice of paradise—four acres filled with vegetable gardens, fruit trees, and herbs. Some herbs are planted in the ground, and some we grow right in our greenhouse.
With such a big family, David and I taught ourselves a variety of ways to preserve our harvest and save money along the way. We’ve learned so much over the years about sustainable living, food preservation, and stretching resources, and I’m passionate about sharing those lessons with others. Whether you’re new to gardening or a seasoned homesteader, I’d love to connect and inspire you with ideas and tips that make a difference!
Join me for a session that’s practical, hands-on, and perfect for anyone looking to make the most out of what they grow. Let’s talk about how you can live more sustainably, save money, and enjoy the rewards of a homegrown lifestyle!
Preserving: Canning, Freezing,
Dehydrating, Freeze-Drying

Are you fascinated by the art and science of growing trees? Join us for a session with a true tree enthusiast who has been nurturing and experimenting with plants since the late 1970s! From his early days growing fruit trees on a small acreage in northern Indiana to his current passion for bonsai and grafting, he brings decades of hands-on experience with trees of all shapes and sizes.
In this session, you’ll discover the secrets behind the Japanese art of bonsai and the unique methods of grafting used to create stunning miniature trees. He’ll share his personal journey and techniques, including his current projects with fruit trees and his grafting experiments with pear varieties.
Whether you’re new to tree cultivation or a seasoned plant lover, this session will be a blend of practical tips, inspiring insights, and live examples of grafted trees. Don’t miss this chance to learn how to transform trees into living works of art and experiment with your own garden in new and exciting ways!
Look for him in the Vendor Hall
Grafting Trees, Fruit & Bonsai

Don’t miss the chance to hear from Dr. Burgmeier, a highly skilled and passionate veterinarian whose journey from southeast Iowa to national recognition is truly inspiring. A graduate of ISU’s College of Veterinary Medicine, Dr. Burgmeier brings a wealth of experience in traditional, preventative, and alternative veterinary care, treating a variety of species at her independently owned practice in rural Iowa.
Dr. Burgmeier is also a certified veterinary chiropractor, blending modern science with alternative techniques to deliver exceptional care.
Her dedication extends to community involvement, from educating students and 4-H groups to presenting at national conferences and writing for industry publications.
If you’re interested in animal health, alternative veterinary methods, or simply want to learn from a professional deeply rooted in Iowa values, Dr. Burgmeier’s session is for you. Her wealth of knowledge and engaging presentation style make this a must-attend talk for homesteaders, animal lovers, and curious minds alike!
Homestead Poultry Diseases
EKK. . . Is it an Emergency,
Or Maybe Not??

Clyde Majerus is a 25-Year+ experienced gardener from the Ozarks in South Missouri.
As a Master Gardener, Clyde has lots to share for both experienced and new gardeners alike.
Clyde has developed a very handy Vegetable Gardening Slide Chart which works all over the country – over 1/2 Million sold.    His chart is a “Must-Have” for new gardeners, and a great quick reference to those who have been gardening for years. 
The Timing of Events For
Spring Vegetable Gardening
Helpful & Creative Ideas
For Your Vegetable Garden

Mom, Midwife & Shepherd
I am a Certified Professional Midwife, I have a BA in Speech and Hearing Science, with a history minor, from the University of Iowa. 
I have 4 children, the first was born in hospital with and obstetrician, as a result of my first lukewarm birth experience, the following three were born at home with midwives. It became a life changing moment.  Experiencing birth at home empowered me as a woman and started me on the path to becoming a midwife.
My life outside of midwifery includes a working sheep farm, gardening, spinning wool, knitting, all forms of homesteading, and long distance running.
Learning to knit in my 20’s led to spinning in my 30’s and shepherding on my own hobby farm with 20 Shetland sheep (a few are Shetland/BFL crosses) in my 40’s.  Having the farm has fostered a slower lifestyle, one that forces us to really pay attention to the seasons and the earth. 
You can find me on Instagram under Midwife Dawn, Birthmoon Midwifery and Maleficus Fiber Farm.
Sheep, Wool & Creating! Oh my!
Midwifery in Iowa

Steven grew up on an Amish farm in the Drakesville area.  He was in the house construction business until he hurt his knee.  Since he could no longer work in construction, he needed to find a way to support his family that wasn’t as strenuous on his body.
Rolling Acres Produce Supplies became available in 2012 and Steven purchased it on January 1st, 2013.  This business had everything from pots, seeds, tools, and production machines to greenhouses.  He successfully worked the business as it was when he bought it, and then in 2022 decided to focus on the greenhouses without the produce supplies.
Steven is not new to greenhouses, having worked with them for over 10 years.  He is conscientious about the needs of people and strives to give each customer the best product available to fit both their needs and their pocketbook.
Steven will cover greenhouse basics and then go into a Q&A.  He believes this is the best way to teach to the needs of the group.
Choosing Your Greenhouse

David Mixdorf grew up in a homesteading household on a 1 ½-acre property on the edge of Waterloo, Iowa. His family was known for their expansive garden, fruit trees, berry plants, and a small livestock operation, including chickens and rabbits. At any given time, the family raised up to 400 rabbits, many of which were bred for meat, medical research, or show stock. Over the years, David has raised 10 different rabbit breeds and is passionate about preserving heritage breeds of livestock as well as heirloom vegetable and fruit varieties. He has taught over 100 classes on gardening, livestock care, and homesteading.
David also served on the national board of the American Chinchilla Rabbit Breeders Association, further contributing to the preservation of rare rabbit breeds. He spent the last 20 years working as both a school and public librarian, during which he curated some of the state’s largest collections on homesteading and gardening. His personal collection boasts over 300 books and continues to grow.
This year, David will present two topics at the conference, sharing his wealth of knowledge and experience with attendees.
Raising Rabbits on Your Homestead
Your Homestead Library

Becky is a dedicated gardener, passionate beekeeper, and enthusiastic foodie with a deep commitment to health and wellness. After a fulfilling 40-year career as a registered nurse, she and her husband retired and returned to their roots in southeast Iowa.
A lifelong advocate for wholesome living, Becky has always prioritized nutritious, home-cooked meals. Known among her colleagues for bringing in unique, homemade lunches, she sparked curiosity with her creative food choices. Now, in retirement, she is fortunate to cultivate her own food on the very same three acres where her grandmother once tended to her garden.
Embracing sustainable, no-till gardening practices, Becky focuses on growing fresh produce while preserving her harvest through methods like fermentation, canning, dehydration, and freezing. Her journey blends a deep appreciation for nature with a lifelong passion for nourishing both body and soul.
Fermentation Method of Food Preservation
Canning Food: Preservation Practices
and Equipment

David’s garden and greenhouse are located north of Bloomfield, not far from the Amish Auction, where he sells his plants and vegetables under the name Fox River Produce. You may have even purchased his fresh produce from local grocery stores. Thanks to his greenhouse, David’s growing season starts early and extends well into the fall. During his brief off-season, he amends the soil in preparation for the next growing cycle and makes any necessary repairs around the property. Over the years, David has committed to using only natural elements and organic fertilizers to cultivate the healthiest and best-tasting produce. His journey also led him to help others adopt the same practices, ultimately evolving into his current business of supplying soil amendments to the local community and beyond.
Balancing Your Soil, Organically

Michelle Hall, owner of Lucky Dog Cattle Company, has been raising purebred Dexter cattle since 2008, blending her hands-on experience with a strong agricultural background. A graduate of Western Illinois
University with a degree in Agriculture, Michelle was also a member of the WIU Livestock Judging Team, where she refined her skills and deepened her passion for the industry. She grew up working in her family’s commercial cattle finishing operation, which inspired her lifelong love for cattle. Michelle and her husband, Mark, a large animal veterinarian, have been married for eight years and are proud parents to five daughters – three of whom have followed in her footsteps and now raise Dexter cattle.
She is excited to share her experiences in sustainable farming and her dedication to homestead cattle at the Homesteaders of Iowa Expo.
So You Want Cows? It’s as Simple as 1-2-3.

Dan is a retired enthusiast and lifelong learner who resides with his wife, Diana, in the tranquil rural community of Selma, Iowa. With a passion for nature, he spends his time outdoors tending to his garden and caring for his beloved bees. An avid ham radio operator, Dan connects with fellow amateur radio operators across the U.S. and internationally, often from his garage, where he enjoys sharing stories and knowledge.
Dan’s beekeeping philosophy is rooted in simplicity, guided by the principle of letting bees do what they do best. Over time, he has transitioned from the conventional Langstroth hive system to the low-maintenance, easy-to-build Layen horizontal hives, which require minimal human intervention. Inspired by the natural beekeeping practices of Dr. Leo Sharashkin and Fedor Lazutin, Dan emphasizes creating an ideal habitat for bees, harvesting honey once per year, and strengthening bee resilience by avoiding treatments for disease and mites. He also engages in capturing local bee swarms to support sustainable beekeeping practices.
In 2022, Dan began teaching beekeeping classes at the KD Center in Eldon, sharing his wealth of knowledge and hands-on experience with others. In 2023, he founded the Pollinators Paradise Bee Club, a casual and welcoming group that gathers occasionally to exchange beekeeping tips, stories, and techniques. With a dedication to fostering community and preserving the health of pollinators, Dan continues to inspire others to embrace the joys of natural, low-interference beekeeping.
Keeping Bees in Horizontal Hives

Hey! I’m Sara! My husband and I accidentally founded our Homestead in 2015. It’s been a wild ride for us and seems we’ve tried almost everything under the Sun. Including raising poultry, Market gardening, managing an apple orchard, raising pigs, sourdough bread, restoring vintage cast iron cookware, poultry processing, and so much more. But we have found our true passion is beekeeping. This will be our 10th year in business and I can’t wait to share with you how we decided what products to continue making, how to Market them, and what a value-added product is.
Value-Added Products

Miranda and her family homestead and homeschool near Washington, IA. Miranda is carrying on the tradition as she was also homeschooled. You will have the opportunity to learn from a mom who has experienced both sides of this issue.
How to Turn a Homesteading Day
Into a Homeschooling Day

Lloyd is a dedicated outdoorsman and homesteader with a passion for self-sufficiency and sustainable living. Having recently expanded his operations to a larger building, he is currently setting up his blacksmithing and homesteading repair areas. With a focus on practical survival skills, Lloyd specializes in creating handmade candles, primarily using the traditional dipping method, for use as both heat and light sources in small spaces. In addition to his candle-making expertise, he forages for medicinal and herbal plants to incorporate into his daily life. His workshop is a reflection of his deep commitment to living off the land and passing on these vital, hands-on skills to others.
Candle Making

Kimberly has a passion for finding food sources in the timbers and meadows of Iowa. She enjoys foraging for mushrooms and medicinal plants.
Foraging in Iowa