Homesteaders
of Iowa

blending decades of technical experience with a deep connection to the land. A former Navy electronics technician and telecommunications engineer, David’s perspective shifted when he built a small raised garden bed for his children in 2008. Since then, he has dedicated himself to sustainable living, earning a Bachelor’s in Regenerative Living and a Master’s in Biomimicry, and is currently pursuing a PhD in Plant and Soil Science.

David and his family homestead in Jefferson County, Iowa, where they grow food, raise animals, and explore self-sufficiency. He is passionate about teaching the next generation, explaining to schoolchildren the importance of soil as the foundation of life, and sharing practical strategies to regenerate the land. David has become a sought-after speaker in regenerative agriculture, sustainability, and community-building, and he is thrilled to inspire fellow homesteaders at this year’s Expo.

Get ready to dive into the quirky world of quantum entanglement—yes, the one that sounds like a sci-fi movie plot! We’ll explore the amusingly profound ways we’re all tied to the land we inhabit, and trust me, it’s more than just forgetting to water your houseplants. Discover why land health matters not just for our crops, but for our sanity and well-being, too. We’ll tackle the serious topic of food insecurity with a wink—because who wants to be ‘hangry’ when you can be hearty? Plus, we’ll arm you with actionable strategies to band together and create local solutions, ensuring our bodies (and those adorable pet cats) thrive in a happy, bustling ecosystem. So, come for the laughter, stay for the learning, and leave inspired to cultivate a future that’s good for the land, the community, and maybe even your dinner plate!

Focuses on the critical role of soil health in our food systems and overall well-being. We will explore the vital importance of supporting microorganisms—the unseen champions of our ecosystems—and how nurturing these organisms leads to soil regeneration. Participants will learn practical methods to enhance soil vitality, resulting in nutrient-rich crops that foster human health and resilient agricultural practices. Join us as we dig deep into the science of soil, recognizing it as the foundation of everything we grow and consume.

Learn the fundamentals of cultivating mushrooms at the homestead. This hands-on session provides beginners with practical steps for growing mushrooms for personal use, nutrition, or potential small-scale income.

Bring home a “starter” for your spring garden! Participants will exchange seeds, gain new varieties, and leave inspired with the knowledge to enrich their own homesteads for the coming growing season.
This is a free workshop. Pop in, make your choices, and You’re on your way again.

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.

Join Doctor Patrick Jones for an In-Depth’ Seminar on Autoimmune Diseases. We’ll discuss ailments like leaky gut syndrome, chronic fatigue, lupus, fibromyalgia, Hashimoto’s thyroiditis, rheumatoid arthritis, and all sorts of other autoimmune disorders. You’ll learn strategies to calm the immune system and resolve some of the underlying issues that cause these problems. Learn what causes the immune system to attack the body and what to do about it. This is an advanced course that will really empower you to understand and address Autoimmune Diseases and Leaky Gut cases at a whole new level!

Clinical herbalist and practicing veterinarian Dr. Patrick Jones discusses the management of wounds and infections using medicinal plants. You will be astounded at the sorts of wounds he has healed using only plants readily available in your own backyard. You’ll be even more astounded to learn how easy it is for you to do it yourself should the need ever arise!

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. They involve their children in every aspect of the homestead. This includes raising and harvesting the meat they consume and gardening and preserving to fill the family’s larder. They also process the dairy from the family milk cow. Many other skills are included that develop character, integrity, and relationships. They do this as a family that desires to bring glory and honor to their Heavenly Father.
You-Tube: youtube@ruthannzimm.com
IG: @ruthannzimm

Using the Homestead to Build Eternal Relationships – Relationships are eternal and are built upon shared experiences. Learn how to create positive experiences with the family while working the homestead.

From yogurt and clabber to hard, aged cheeses, taking a walk from the pasture to the cheese cave and stopping to visit all the good bacteria along the way. RuthAnn will also give tips for choosing the right milk cow for your homestead.

and farmers, though today his homestead looks a little different — honeybees and vegetables thriving in a suburban backyard. A dedicated student of natural beekeeping, Monty follows the work and wisdom of leaders such as Dr. Leo Sharashkin, Les Crowder, and Thomas Seeley.

Coming into beekeeping as an outsider, Monty quickly noticed that many modern practices prioritize the beekeeper’s goals over the natural instincts of the honeybee. His approach focuses on working with the bees rather than against them, believing that a return to more natural methods can improve bee health, create better hive environments, and reduce the overall workload for the beekeeper. Monty shares his journey, observations, and practical insights as “Suburban Sodbuster” across YouTube, Facebook, Instagram, and at suburbansodbuster.com. He is passionate about helping everyday people realize that natural beekeeping is both accessible and rewarding — even in suburban spaces.

In modern beekeeping, practices such as constant manipulation, feeding, and chemical treatments have largely replaced reliance on the bees’ natural processes. In this class, Monty explains how returning to a more natural beekeeping model can reduce workload, improve hive environments, and support healthier bees — naturally.

Monty will introduce five core principles of natural beekeeping and explain how new or experienced beekeepers can begin or transition toward working with the bees instead of against them.

A honeybee colony is a fascinating super-organism built on cooperation, communication, and clearly defined roles. In this engaging presentation, Monty explores the biology of the hive and what life inside and outside the colony can teach us about resilience, community, and purpose.

By observing the bees, we can gain insights not only into their remarkable world — but into our own lives as well.

acupuncturist, naprapathic doctor, massage therapist, and advanced EMT. He served for many years as a first responder and EMT on ambulance crews and as Director of Emergency Medical Services for Jerome County, Idaho. Dr. Adamson is now in private practice in Twin Falls Idaho where he spends his time helping people regain their health. Dr. Adamson loves to share his extensive knowledge and has a number of natural wellness courses available at homesteadacademy.com.

Homestead life is physically demanding. Lifting, hauling, bending, and long, busy days can take a serious toll on the body. The work doesn’t stop when you’re hurting, so having simple, natural ways to ease pain is an essential skill. In this class, Jed Adamson teaches do-it-yourself methods for relieving pain without pharmaceuticals. You’ll learn how auricular therapy uses gentle acupressure points on the ear to help reduce back pain, joint pain, headaches, and muscle strain. Jed also shares a few other effective holistic remedies to ease pain. The class ends with a live demonstration so you can confidently use these techniques at home.

Stress shows up in many ways, especially in the busy rhythm of homestead life. Anxiety, depression, insomnia, and trouble focusing are all signs the nervous system needs support. In this class, Dr. Jed Adamson teaches simple, natural tools for calming emotional strain without pharmaceuticals. Auricular therapy uses gentle pressure on specific points of the ear to balance the nervous system, lift mood, and improve sleep. It is comfortable, effective, and easy to do at home. Jed will teach healing auricular points for mood support, as well as other natural remedies that encourage emotional well-being. The class ends with a live demonstration so you can use these techniques confidently.

Practicing Auricular Therapist, Instructor in The HomeGrown Herbalist School of Botanical Medicine, and the General Manager of HomeGrown Herbalist. To Luci, herbal medicine is more than a field of study—it’s a way of life. Growing up as the daughter of Dr. Patrick Jones, she was immersed in traditional healing, sparking a lifelong love and study of plants and other natural healing modalities.  Today, she lives on a 10-acre homestead in Idaho with her husband, Davis, and their five homeschooled children. Luci balances family life with managing HomeGrown Herbalist and teaching herbal medicine, encouraging others to make herbalism a meaningful part of their lives.

Join Lucianne Walker, Clinical Herbalist and Naturopath, to discover eight essential plants every homesteader needs to know! Learn how to cultivate, harvest, and use these plants for food, medicine, and natural remedies to bring health and sustainability to your homestead. Luci will share practical tips from her own 10-acre homestead in Idaho, showing how to integrate these plants into daily life and family routines. Whether you’re new to herbalism or looking to deepen your plant knowledge, this class will give you the knowledge and confidence to make herbs part of your everyday life.

of Southern Missouri, Clyde Majerus has cultivated a wealth of knowledge that benefits both seasoned growers and beginners alike. As a Master Gardener, he is passionate about sharing practical, time-tested advice to help gardeners maximize their success.

One of Clyde’s greatest contributions to the gardening world is his Vegetable Gardening Slide Chart, a must-have tool that simplifies planting schedules, seasonal timing, and essential gardening techniques. With over half a million charts sold nationwide, his innovative guide has become an indispensable resource for gardeners looking to optimize their harvests.

Whether you’re a beginner just starting out or an experienced grower looking for a quick and reliable reference, Clyde’s expertise and creative gardening solutions offer valuable insights to help your vegetable garden thrive.

Looking for simple ways to improve your vegetable garden? In this fast-paced and idea-packed lecture, Clyde Majerus shares creative, practical strategies that save time, reduce effort, and increase garden yields.

This session is filled with proven tips that work for gardeners at every level. Clyde’s take-home handout offers valuable options you can immediately apply to your own garden, making this lecture both inspiring and highly actionable.

Timing is everything in the garden — and Clyde Majerus shows you how to get it right. Using his Time-Phased format, Clyde walks through the full sequence of a successful spring garden, from frost dates and bed preparation to planting, growth, harvest, and preservation.

With the help of his handout and signature slide chart, you’ll gain a clear road map for your vegetable garden, helping you know what to do, when to do it, and how to stay on track throughout the season.

Want to leave with a clear plan for your garden year? In this interactive workshop, Clyde Majerus will guide you step-by-step through the process of planning a successful vegetable garden from start to finish.

Participants will receive Clyde’s Vegetable Gardening Slide Chart and work through the key decisions needed for a productive season. You’ll leave with a customized plan, increased confidence, and a clear path forward — making your next garden year truly Mission Possible.

over a decade. He installed the first solar grid-tied system in Harrison County and later went completely off-grid on his second homestead. John designed and built his current solar system, which powers his 16-acre property in the Loess Hills of Mondamin, Iowa, and is now finishing a geothermal, solar-powered “Green House in the Snow” project this spring.

A contributing writer for Backwoods Home Magazine, a guest on The Survival Podcast, and a teacher at the Omaha Homeschool Learning Center, John has taught solar classes since the early days of COVID, helping others become energy independent. He is also a beekeeper with 15+ years of experience, has taught free classes on farm animal processing, and supplies free chicks to his local town despite restrictions.

John is passionate about the new homesteading legacy movement—empowering families to become producers, self-reliant, and resilient. He brings practical expertise, motivational energy, and real-world solutions for sustainable living.

Take the mystery out of solar power!
In this hands-on workshop, John Ewing will guide participants through building a small, fully operational solar system with all major components. You’ll learn the basics of electricity, how to use test equipment, and how to apply these skills to real-world homestead projects—from solar water pumps to off-grid energy solutions.

This session is designed for practical learners and beginners alike — everyone will leave with actionable knowledge they can use immediately.

an independently operated veterinary practice in rural Iowa. She graduated from Winfield–Mt. Union High School, earned a Bachelor of Science in Biology from Truman State University, and completed her Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree at Iowa State University’s College of Veterinary Medicine in 2008.

Dr. Burgmeier has practiced in a wide range of veterinary settings, including mixed animal practice in rural Iowa, small animal and equine practice in North Texas, and as a relief veterinarian in both Iowa and Texas. In 2010, she completed more than 200 hours of specialized training and passed national written and practical examinations to become certified in veterinary chiropractic care through Parker College of Chiropractic in Irving, Texas.

Her work blends traditional, preventative, and alternative veterinary medicine across multiple species. Dr. Burgmeier is also an active educator and community volunteer. She has written for Apples N’ Oats magazine, presented at veterinary and agricultural conferences, supported 4-H programs, worked with homeschool science labs, hosted school-to-work students, and volunteered with the Pork Producers. She is excited to share her knowledge with the Homesteaders of Iowa community.

Sheep and goats are hardy animals, but knowing what’s normal — and what’s not — can make all the difference. In this practical class, Dr. Michelle Burgmeier, DVM, will walk through common health, care, and maintenance concerns for small ruminants on the homestead.

Michelle will demonstrate how to properly set a leg, discuss signs of injury or illness to watch for, and share preventative care tips that can help homesteaders respond confidently and appropriately when issues arise. This class blends veterinary insight with real-world experience and is ideal for homesteaders who want to better care for their sheep and goats while knowing when professional help is needed.

for his 7th birthday, this young presenter dedicated himself to becoming a hatching expert.  Since starting on this journey, he’s researched numerous hatching variables, experimented with different techniques, and perfected his methods for a successful hatching experience.  William has presented at the Maasdam Barns multiple times, presented egg candling workshops, at 4-H meetings, has won Junior Poultry Showmanship at the fair, KMEM radio Junior Ag Youth award, as well as other livestock trophies and banners.  To date, he has successfully hatched chickens, turkeys, guineas, quail, and ducks in his incubators.  The last two years he has hatched his poultry to show at the fair, is currently hatching chicks to sell and is experimenting with crossing chickens to hatch offspring for certain traits.  Join William, a very thorough and patient instructor, as he shows you step by step how to have a successful hatching experience!      

Step-by-step instructions of successfully hatching poultry & game birds.  There will be demonstrations as well as hands-on participation.  Everyone will get the chance to “candle” an egg to see if there is a live chicken inside.

Brian’s path seemed set—until he began questioning the future of agriculture. While studying conventional agronomy and corn breeding in college, he embraced the industry’s standard practices. But by the 1990s, after marrying Karen and starting a family, he grew increasingly concerned about the rise of GMOs and chemical-intensive farming, especially with young children growing up on the farm.
Determined to cultivate a healthier, more sustainable future, Brian and Karen began transitioning their farm to organic methods, integrating their children into daily farm life and embracing homeschooling along the way. Their commitment to regenerative agriculture has not only transformed their land but also inspired the next generation—today, all three of their adult children have returned from college to join the family farm, working alongside their father to grow food the way nature intended.
Now, farming organically north of Dwight, Illinois, Brian is passionate about sharing his journey, proving that change is possible, and inspiring others to rethink the way we grow our food.

What do the terms organic, non-GMO, Sustainable, All Natural, Regenerative, Chemical Free, Heirloom and Whole Foods mean? A look at how farming (concentrating on grains) and food processing has changed in the last 150 years. How we moved from eating organic heirlooms to consuming highly processed GMOs and why we should try and go back and “Make America Healthy Again”.

grew up on their farm and started baking bread at a very young age. She will be sharing both yeast bread and biscuits. Something for everyone!

You will make a loaf of bread. You will have a loaf of bread to pick up at the Seversons’ booth at the end of the day.

You will learn how to make biscuits. They will be baked in BV ovens so you have biscuits to take home with you.

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.1st

You’ve got a sheep fleece — now what? Join Dawn Crist for a lively demonstration where she explores the many ways you can use your fleece, from crafting to gardening and beyond.

Dawn will show tools and techniques used to transform raw fiber into finished garments and other projects. She’ll also share creative, practical uses for wool outside of crafting, perfect for homesteaders looking to make the most of their resources.

This casual, discussion-friendly session allows you to watch, learn, and ask questions while Dawn demonstrates techniques and ideas you can apply at home. Come gain inspiration and practical knowledge for turning fleece into useful, beautiful, and sustainable creations!

What is a midwife? Who is eligible for midwifery care? What kinds of midwives are there? Midwifery is healthcare profession centered on supporting women through pregnancy, childbirth, postpartum, and gynecological care, focusing on natural processes while also managing complications, offering personalized, holistic, and evidence-based care from puberty to menopause. Come and learn more about midwifery today and what kinds of midwives are available to families.

a candle and soapery located in Eldon, Iowa. Pearlicia specializes in heritage-inspired, handmade products that celebrate craftsmanship, creativity, and rural living.

At Raw Americana, she crafts artisan candles, soaps, and other handmade goods, blending traditional techniques with practical homestead skills. Pearlicia loves sharing her knowledge with others and empowering people to explore their creativity. She is thrilled to bring her passion for crafting and homesteading to the Homesteaders of Iowa Expo & Midwest Conference, where attendees can learn hands-on skills and take home something they made themselves.

Step into the world of handmade soap with Pearlicia Cloke in this hands-on, fun, and safe workshop. You’ll participate in every step of the soap-making process — except the lye mixing — and create your very own custom bar of soap to take home the same day.

This workshop is perfect for beginners or anyone who wants a creative, practical craft experience. Learn techniques, ask questions, and discover how simple it can be to make your own soap — drama-free!

operate Gingerich Greenhouse in rural Bloomfield, Iowa.  They purchased the well-established business in 2024 and offer annuals, perennials, trees, shrubs, herbs, and vegetable plants to be sold retail and wholesale.  They also offer bulk and pre-packaged seeds, fertilizers, decorative planters, potting soils, and plant care items.  They love their job and enjoy working together as a family.  Both Lynford and Laura grew up working in their families’ greenhouses, so the transition to owners of Gingerich Greenhouse was a very natural step for them.  The greenhouse is located north of Drakesville, Iowa and has been a trusted business in the area for many years.

This is a hands-on class where you will learn easy ways to sow seeds and manage seedlings indoors and out as well as how to select pots and potting mix.  You will also learn how to raise healthy seedlings in the garden.  All seeds, plants, and supplies will be furnished to sow seeds and transplant a seedling for you to take home.  Here is your chance to dig in the dirt!

beginning on an urban homestead and expanding across four U.S. states and two countries. His experience spans market gardening, organic and heirloom gardening, and raising heritage breeds of livestock.

David and his wife operate Prairie Hilltop Farm, where they raise rabbits, chickens, bees, and a small orchard. They grow most of their own vegetables, start roughly 4,000 plants per year, propagate a variety of flowers and shrubs, and trade baled hay for beef and pork. They are also passionate about food preservation, bread baking, and hatching their own chicks. In retirement, David has shared his expertise as a gardening instructor for the past 10 years, teaching practical skills for sustainable living and homestead success. He is excited to bring his wealth of experience to the Homesteaders of Iowa Expo & Midwest Conference, inspiring others to cultivate thriving gardens, healthy livestock, and self-reliant homesteads.

Looking to start your own homestead chicken flock? In this presentation, David Mixdorf will share practical guidance for raising chickens for both eggs and meat. You’ll learn how to choose the right breeds, manage housing and feeding, and care for your flock throughout the year.

David will also discuss integrating chickens into a sustainable homestead, drawing from decades of experience on his own farm. This session is perfect for beginners and experienced homesteaders alike who want to maximize productivity and well-being for their flock while building a self-reliant homestead.

founder of The Homestead Education, a company dedicated to teaching children self-sufficiency through hands-on learning.
Inspired by her family’s move to Idaho and her background in agriculture, Kody saw the need for curriculum that blends academics with real-life homesteading skills. Through The Homestead Education, she empowers families to think outside the box, raise self-sufficient children, and embrace lifelong learning. Her mission is passionate about lighting a fire that will start a revolution to create change within a world that no longer works.

We are the first generation of parents expected to raise children with no skills, no purpose, and no connection to how the world actually works. And we wonder why they’re struggling. In this powerful and paradigm-shifting talk, Kody Hanner challenges modern parents to take back what was stripped from us—our role as the first teachers of civilization. With raw truth and lived experience, she makes the case for reskilling the next generation through gardening, food preservation, herbal medicine, critical thinking, trades, resourcefulness, and emotional strength. This isn’t about prepping. It’s about preserving humanity.

Join Kody Hanner for a lively noon discussion on the art of juggling homesteading, homeschooling, and keeping everything running smoothly! Share your wins, swap strategies, and pick up creative ideas for teaching life skills while managing your homestead. Whether it’s lesson plans, livestock, or laundry, this session is all about making it work—and having fun doing it!

with more than 30 years of emergency and trauma nursing experience in both civilian practice and the military. Her background in conventional medicine, paired with advanced education in plant-based wellness, gives her a unique and well-rounded perspective on health and healing.

Using her GI Bill, Wendy earned master’s degrees in Herbal Medicine, Aromatherapy and Essential Oil Formulation, and Holistic Nutrition from the American College of Healthcare Sciences. She is passionate about creating individualized, small-batch herbal formulations, blending traditional herbal knowledge with modern clinical understanding.

Wendy and her husband, Darren, own and operate SouthStar Farms, a 20-acre Medicinal Herb Farm, Apothecary, and Event Center. Whenever possible, herbs used in Wendy’s formulations are grown, harvested, and processed right on the farm. Darren manages daily farm operations and coordinates educational events, helping bring their shared mission to life.
Wendy is honored and excited to be part of the Homesteaders of Iowa Expo & Midwest Conference, where she looks forward to sharing knowledge, connecting with fellow homesteaders, and supporting others on their journey toward greater self-reliance and wellness.

Wendy will be teaching both a simple and powerful way to take herbal medicine by demonstrating the “simples” method for making flu tea. The five ingredients will be discussed. Wendy will be providing those ingredients so each of the class participants has not only a recipe to tweak to their liking but a product to take home and try immediately.

and has been buying, fixing, and maintaining farm equipment for over 30 years. Starting a custom hay baling business before he turned 18, Kevin continues to operate older tractors and equipment on his small 3-acre homestead in Southeast Iowa, where he raises cattle, dairy goats, sheep, and chickens. With a 20+ year career in IT for a Fortune 100 company, he has applied his tech skills to building an advanced home network and off-grid security camera system. Kevin shares his homesteading journey and practical tips on his YouTube channel, Blessed & Belted Homestead.

You’ve put sweat, blood and tears into your homestead, but how do you know it’s safe when you are not home? You’ve got that pregnant goat and its COLD outside, but how do you know when she is about to labor without checking on her every 15 minutes? We’ll talk about how you can install your own Security Camera system and even be off the grid! We’ll also talk about equipment options and recommendations and the benefits of being able to see what those crazy animals of yours are doing from the warm comforts of your home.

Take a break, grab your lunch, and join Kevin Hendress for an informal discussion with fellow homesteaders. Share your successes, ask questions, and troubleshoot challenges related to homesteading, mechanical repairs, and IT issues. This session is designed for networking, problem-solving, and learning from each other in a relaxed, supportive environment.

a lifelong passion for healthy living on her grandmother’s three-acre property. Through gardening and beekeeping, Becky grows much of the food that fills her pantry and freezers, relying on a variety of food preservation methods to nourish herself year-round. While she enjoys all forms of preservation, Becky has a special passion for fermentation. She appreciates fermentation not only for its ability to preserve food, but also for the friendly microbes that support gut health and overall wellness. Becky loves helping others gain confidence in fermentation by breaking down the science and showing just how approachable and beneficial it can be.

Fermentation doesn’t have to be intimidating! In this demonstration-style class, Becky will walk through a variety of fermentation techniques, explaining the science, equipment, and resources needed to get started. Topics include basic lacto-fermentation of vegetables and fruits such as krauts, pickles, salsa, and mixed vegetables, along with yeast-fermented vinegars, kombucha, and wine making. Samples of fermented foods will be provided. This session is designed to remove the fear of fermenting by replacing it with practical knowledge and confidence.

based in Ottumwa, Iowa. His passion for trees and hands-on growing stretches back to the late 1970s, when he first began experimenting with fruit trees and woody plants.

While living on a small acreage in northern Indiana, Beckham and his wife cultivated a wide variety of fruit trees, deepening his practical understanding of tree growth, care, and propagation. Over the years, his primary focus has been bonsai, the Japanese art of growing miniature trees. Through bonsai, Beckham developed extensive experience with precision grafting, traditionally used to control branch placement, structure, and form.

At his current homestead, Beckham continues to apply those skills on a practical scale. He maintains several fruit trees and enjoys working with volunteer pear trees, onto which he has successfully grafted multiple pear varieties. His approach blends engineering-level problem solving with decades of hands-on experimentation, making his knowledge both practical and accessible.

Beckham enjoys sharing what he has learned over a lifetime of growing and is excited to connect with fellow homesteaders interested in trees, grafting, and fruit production.

Come to the class to learn techniques and several aspects of grafting. And then later, join me in the vendor hall for a demonstration.

Dungeons & Dragons games and worked as a ghostwriter of paperback romance novellas. He is still very active in tabletop role-playing games, although no longer in a professional capacity.

Worm Wizard is a vermicompost production company located in Indianola, Iowa, owned and operated by Kyran Luhrs, who recently purchased Central Iowa Organic Fertilizer’s (CIOF’s) worm herd and equipment. Kyran has lived in Iowa for most of his life and received two bachelor’s degrees from Iowa State University—one in Creative Writing and one in Epistemological Philosophy.

Kyran brings years of experience with worm farming and composting from his time working for CIOF. His family has been instrumental in helping him run Worm Wizard. Brad Luhrs, Kyran’s father, is a retired engineer who has designed and built equipment for the company. Aimee Luhrs, Kyran’s mother, has a degree in Ecology from Simpson College and has helped address environmental concerns and operational feasibility.

Worm Wizard feeds its worms thermophilic composted horse and cow manure, breaking it down into the fantastic product that is worm castings. Spread some on your garden today!

Curious about why worm castings are often called “black gold”? In this engaging presentation, Kyran Luhrs will explain the science behind vermicomposting and why worm castings are such a powerful soil amendment. You’ll learn how vermicompost works to improve plant growth, support soil biology, and benefit gardens, houseplants, and greenhouses alike. Kyran will walk through the biological mechanisms that make worm castings effective, how they increase nutrient availability and microbial activity, and practical ways to use vermicompost in your own growing systems. This session is ideal for homesteaders, gardeners, and plant lovers who want to understand and apply natural soil-building techniques.

with decades of hands-on experience in livestock production and agricultural business. Beginning in 2003, Steve built and operated Diversified Farms from the ground up, growing it into what was once the largest meat goat operation in Iowa. Through years of managing herd health, breeding, infrastructure, and farm economics, he gained deep practical insight into what it takes to run a successful livestock enterprise.

Today, Steve is the owner and operator of Legends Farm and Lawn, an outdoor power equipment dealership in Centerville, Iowa, where he helps farmers and homesteaders select and maintain the equipment needed to work smarter and more efficiently. In addition to running his business, Steve is a respected meat goat mentor, sharing real-world knowledge with producers looking to start or expand their own herds.

Steve brings a grounded, experience-based approach to homesteading and farming—combining livestock expertise, business acumen, and a passion for helping others succeed.

Discover how grants, tax deductions, tax credits, and FSA/EQIP programs can support your farm or homestead. Learn what questions to ask your tax professional and how running your operation as a business can help you get paid for what you’re already doing.

and operated garden seed company based in Greenwood, Missouri. Raised in a family where gardening was a way of life, Patty continues that legacy alongside her husband, Daryl, by helping others grow food sustainably and successfully from seed.

After marrying, Patty and Daryl planted their first garden together, with Daryl participating in seed swaps to preserve and collect heirloom varieties. What began as a shared passion soon grew into Sow Right Seeds, a business dedicated to providing high-quality, sustainably sourced, heirloom and open-pollinated seeds.

A former schoolteacher, Patty brings a natural love of education to her work. She enjoys helping gardeners at every stage learn how to start seeds successfully and overcome common challenges. Through videos, newsletters, and blog content, she shares practical gardening knowledge designed to build confidence and long-term success. Together, Patty and Daryl operate their business with sustainability at the core — from a solar-powered seed shop and compost systems to natural gardening practices and a Giving Garden that donates food and seed to communities in need. Patty is passionate about empowering others to grow their own food and experience the joy and resilience that comes from gardening.

Every gardener runs into challenges — from pest pressure to plants that just don’t thrive. In this informative class, Patty Ward tackles some of the most common gardening headaches and shares practical strategies to overcome them.

Patty will discuss vine borer management, explore the benefits of companion planting, and offer approachable solutions gardeners can apply right away. Whether you’re new to gardening or have years of experience, this session will help you grow healthier plants and reduce frustration in the garden.

He now lives in Oskaloosa with his wife Lois, and drives a semi in the spring and fall for a local farmer. When he isn’t driving truck he is operating a loader for a mulch company south of Oskaloosa. He has had interest in ropes and knots when he had horses and worked around the farm. He has taught others to make rope and tie knots when he was on the fire department and involved with Cadets, a boys organization in our church. He has a small collection of rope makers and a few he has made. He has always enjoyed making rope and learning new knots.

Cast iron cookware has been a homestead staple for generations, and in this discussion-based class, Loren will share his deep appreciation and hands-on experience with these timeless tools.

With a personal collection of over 40 pieces of cast iron cookware — including frying pans, Dutch ovens, griddles, and more — Loren brings practical knowledge gained from daily use, demonstrations, and cooking competitions. Alongside his wife, Lois, he relies on cast iron to prepare everyday meals, not just special-occasion dishes.

This session will be an open, conversational class, focused on real-world use rather than rigid recipes. Topics may include selecting pieces, cooking techniques, care and seasoning, heat management, and why cast iron continues to earn its place in modern kitchens.

Participants are encouraged to ask questions, share experiences, and learn from one another in a relaxed, welcoming setting — perfect for beginners and seasoned cast iron users alike.

In this hands-on workshop, Loren will guide participants through the timeless skills of rope-making and knot-tying — essential knowledge for any homestead, farm, or workshop.

You’ll learn how to turn simple twine into strong, usable rope, then put that rope to work by mastering a variety of practical knots. Loren will demonstrate common and specialty knots, explain when and why to use them, and show real-world applications around the farm.

The class will also include demonstrations of block and tackle systems traditionally used to lift heavy loads and tighten fence wire. Participants will learn how these systems work and how they can be applied on today’s homestead.

As part of the workshop, you’ll make a rope halter for livestock, working alongside Loren, and you’ll take your finished halter home with you. The session is designed to be casual, interactive, and discussion-based, with plenty of time for questions and hands-on practice.

Whether you’re new to rope work or looking to sharpen practical skills, this workshop offers knowledge you’ll use again and again.

her husband, David. Together they share their land with a lively mix of livestock — currently around 40 hens, a rooster, and a dog named Josie — with plans to add pigs and meat chickens this spring. Lori and David are parents to five children and grandparents to a growing crew of nine (soon to be ten!) grandchildren, all of whom enjoy the fruits of their homesteading efforts.

With a large family to feed and care for, Lori and David have taught themselves a wide range of skills focused on gardening, food preservation, and sustainable living. From the garden and greenhouse to the butchering and canning room, there’s always a new project underway. Lori is passionate about sharing practical, approachable ways to preserve the harvest, save money, and make the most of what you grow — whether you’re just getting started or have years of experience under your belt.

Join Lori for a panel-style discussion exploring a variety of methods for preserving your harvest — from garden to pantry. Together, we’ll talk through different preservation techniques, including what works best for different foods, family sizes, and lifestyles. This session is perfect for anyone looking to reduce waste, save money, and enjoy homegrown food year-round, whether you’re brand new to preserving or looking to expand your skills.

ministry experience and 12 years as a professional chaplain serving hospice and long-term care communities. His life’s work has centered on walking alongside individuals and families during seasons of growth, hardship, and transition, offering steady spiritual care rooted in compassion and understanding.

Jeremy has served the Ottumwa community for many years, beginning as a pastor at Albia Road Baptist Church, where he and his wife, Michelle, were married and later returned to lead outreach and community engagement efforts. His chaplaincy career includes extensive service with the Good Samaritan Society, where he advanced from hospice chaplain to overseeing a full long-term care campus that included hospice, assisted living, and independent living services.

In recent years, Jeremy transitioned from formal pastoral roles into a new season of work as an Amazon Influencer, testing and reviewing products while continuing to live out values of honesty and service. Jeremy and Michelle also maintain a small urban homestead in Ottumwa, embracing sustainable living practices and hands-on self-reliance.

At the Homesteaders of Iowa Expo, Jeremy serves as the Event Chaplain, opens each day with prayer, and leads the Faith and the Homestead panel discussion. He is available throughout the event to offer encouragement, prayer, spiritual guidance, or simply a listening ear. His diverse background and approachable nature make him a trusted and welcoming presence for attendees.

Homesteading is about more than skills and self-reliance—it’s also about purpose, values, and community. In this panel discussion, Chaplain Jeremy Skinner guides a thoughtful conversation on how faith intersects with homesteading, family life, stewardship of the land, and resilience. Attendees are invited to listen, reflect, and engage in a respectful dialogue that honors diverse experiences and shared values.

forced him into early retirement. While leaving the farm was a major life change, it did nothing to diminish his passion for working the soil and growing food. Dave simply shifted that lifelong knowledge into a new setting—urban gardening.

Today, Dave maintains multiple garden spaces in Ottumwa, Iowa, including his front yard, a nearby vacant lot owned by a neighbor, and an additional lot he recently purchased where he plans to establish an orchard. He has successfully applied traditional farming principles to small-scale and urban environments, turning unused spaces into productive gardens.

In addition to his own projects, Dave plays a key role in supporting the United Way of Wapello County community gardens. He does much of the plowing and tilling for the garden plots, which are rented to area residents, and he actively helps fellow gardeners troubleshoot challenges and improve their growing success. If Dave doesn’t have an answer on the spot, he researches the issue and returns with a solution.

Over the years, Dave has identified several gardening tools that make soil preparation, weed control, and harvesting easier and more efficient. One of his favorites is the broad fork, a versatile tool ideal for loosening compacted soil and planting or harvesting root crops. Dave enjoys sharing both his practical experience and the tools that help make gardening more productive and enjoyable.

Join Dave Weber for a relaxed, engaging noon-hour support and discussion session designed to bring homesteaders together. This facilitated conversation creates space to share concerns, celebrate victories, ask questions, and learn from one another’s real-life experiences.

While grounded in time-tested homesteading practices, Dave also enjoys staying on the cutting edge of new and diverse methods. This blend of “old wisdom and fresh ideas” makes the discussion both practical and forward-thinking. Whether you’re just getting started or have years under your belt, you’ll have the opportunity to network with others who live near you, exchange ideas, and leave encouraged by the shared knowledge of the community.

This session is casual, welcoming, and driven by participant discussion—come ready to listen, share, and connect.