Journal Writing Project – The Story of Small Business

By Madison Lile

When you drive through southeast Minnesota, you don’t typically see a Starbucks, Target or Sam’s Club, you see small businesses that are more than places of commerce. They are reflections of the people and communities that sustain them. No where is this clearer than in local farms like Owl Bluff Farm in Houston, Minn., which grows fresh, organic, and local produce for the region. Their dedication to the craft, the risks they endure, and the sacrifices they make to keep it running, top all other large corporations. This summer I got the chance to experience what it’s like first hand.

Farming is one of the most demanding types of small business. Every head of lettuce or any other product comes from the labor and care of the people at the farm. Carrie Calvo manages Owl Bluff Farm alongside co-manager Ari and with help from a small, seasonal crew. At the farm they grow everything on less than one acre, including crops in three high tunnels and a deep winter greenhouse designed by and built in partnership with the University of Minnesota. The long hours of planting, tending, and harvesting, often in unpredictable weather, is incredible.

Despite facing challenges from the summer weather, small farms demonstrate extraordinary resilience. They adapt to changing conditions, diversify their crops, and find creative ways to connect with customers. Through farmers markets, local restaurants, direct sales, and even offering drop off options, they aim to create an accessible market for everyone. Unlike larger-scale operations, the farm has the flexibility to pivot quickly by adapting their growing practices, and tailoring the work to community needs. This adaptability, paired with their passion gives them the strength to endure setbacks and continue contributing to the local food source.

In the month of June, Owl Bluff had a tornado cause serious damage to the farm. The tornado ripped the roof off the storage shed. Two high tunnels, which housed the peppers, melons, and cucumbers, were completely destroyed. A third tunnel for tomatoes and eggplants also had damage, alongside numerous trees that were knocked down across the deer fence. Thankfully the new deep winter greenhouse sustained only minor damage. With a couple of new hands and other local businesses, the crew was able to get the farm up and running again faster than you could ever imagine and still fulfilled orders that very week. Despite all of these setbacks, they remained resilient.  

I saw this first hand while working for the Cavlos. Within my first couple of days I could tell this group of people were some of the most determined and positive people I have met. It’s not common to say that the best part of the day is heading to work but this very statement was true for me. The environment that the Calvos create is warm and welcoming. We all work together and are provided a fresh meal from the farm everyday. During market seasons I encourage you to choose to buy local even when it’s less convenient. Try being patient when nature interrupts supply, and celebrate the uniqueness of what small farms provide. Please value not only the product but also the people and place behind it. A kind word at the store and market or a positive post on social media becomes a reminder that their work matters.

Empathy can’t erase all of the challenges they may face, but it provides the encouragement and support that helps small businesses continue pushing forward. We need to help ensure that they not only survive but thrive. In turn, their resilience becomes a gift back to the community, reminding us that strength is often found in the smallest, most dedicated places. I am grateful to have had the chance to work for these incredible people and look forward to their future success.   

Madison Lile is a Spring Grove High School student, one of 9 area students participating in the Journal Writing Project, now in its 27th year.