Agritourism Event Highlights DeWitt Agriculture

The Evolution of the Heartland event brought a unique agritourism experience to DeWitt, Iowa, on Thursday July 25th, offering exclusive, behind-the-scenes tours that showcased the innovation driving our agricultural and small-town communities. From traveling into the depths of a quarry, witnessing a local locker and creamery, and being part of an IVF procedure, the event was a special opportunity to delve into the heart of rural Iowa.

Participants traveled from as far as Florida and Arizona to DeWitt for a fun-filled day of immersive, rural Iowa tours. Nearly 50 people from several states participated in the unique event sponsored by Travel Iowa, the Iowa Food & Family Project, DeWitt Chamber and Development Company, LiquiGrow, Farm Credit Services of America, Eastern Iowa Farmer, River Valley Cooperative, Clinton County Farm Bureau, and First Central State Bank, among others. Event staff and volunteers, sponsors, tour hosts, social media influencers, media, and members of the Central DeWitt Future Farmers of America were also able to experience rural Iowa through local tours.

The day began with immersive tours at Crystal Creek Enterprises in Grand Mound. Angela Rheingans, President and CEO of Dewitt Chamber and Development Company greeted attendees, setting the stage for a day filled with discovery and inspiration. Rheingans stated, “We are excited to host this event for the first time, providing you a glimpse of the ag innovation happening in our community. We are proud of our agricultural roots and those that continue to work and lead our local ag industries. Our hope is that you will return to visit again and share with others the outstanding experience you had in DeWitt.” Iowa Nice Guy, Scott Siepker, also met with guests and shared his excitement for small-town innovation.

The morning tours, hosted by Dennis Campbell, owner and operator at Crystal Creek Enterprises, showcased the impressive evolution of a Clinton County farm family’s operation into a cutting-edge agricultural innovator. During the “Plow > Power > Precision” tour, attendees marveled at century-old tractors in action and enjoyed rides in brand-new, state-of-the-art tractors and combines. Matt Willimack, Grain Merchandiser at Cedar County Coop and 4th generation of Willimack Family Farms led the “Seed to Silos” tour highlighted the innovation behind Iowa’s cornfields and the farm’s global efforts to feed and fuel the world. Attendees had the unique opportunity to walk among the grain bins where the harvested grain is stored until sold.

After a Main Street luncheon at Murphy’s Pub, where Chris McCulloh shared information about McCulloh Family Genetics and his swine operations. Rheingans and City Administrator, Steve Linder guided a walking tour of the downtown focused on revitalization projects, both past and current that contribute to the vibrancy of the downtown and community as a whole. Participants were also able to explore and shop local businesses. The catered meal was locally sourced pork from McCulloh Family Genetics, sides and salads from Murphy’s Pub, and desserts from Urban Eats.

The afternoon featured more immersive tours, including “Farm-to-Local Market,” where attendees experienced the Moore family’s commitment to providing fresh, local meat and dairy with the support of the region. “Revolution in Beef Genetics”, offered a glimpse into modern cattle breeding techniques at DeWitt Veterinary Clinic. “Unearthing Potential” at Wendling Quarries revealed the journey from raw material to vital infrastructure, showcasing sustainable practices and including a tour of the mining pit where participants witnessed the machines in action.

After a full day of learning and networking, participants ended the day at the DeWitt Farmers Market where they could shop from over 70 vendors with locally sourced produce, baked goods, and handmade items.

The Future of Evolution of the Heartland
“We feel that Evolution of the Heartland, and more events like this, will become a catalyst for rural Iowa to share their message, progress in agriculture, strides in the production of wholesome, nutritious food, and the pride that farm families experience when caring for their land and operations,” said Shelly Greving owner of Emerge Marketing Solutions and creator of Evolution of the Heartland.

Evolution of the Heartland has three more events in Iowa later this summer and fall. September 12th in Stanton; September 26th in Coon Rapids; and October 3rd, in Manning. To learn more about Evolution of the Heartland or to register for upcoming events, visit evolutionoftheheartland.com.

Opportunities for prospective 2025 sponsors and community event hosts are actively being pursued. For more Evolution of the Heartland information, please complete the online forms or contact the event coordinator, Annie Greve, at info@evolutionoftheheartland.com. Follow along with event updates on Facebook and Instagram @evolutionoftheheartland to learn more.