Chesnut Charlie's

In 1995, the orchard began planting chestnuts, pecans, and Christmas trees on old farm ground north of Lawrence, Kansas. Following organic practices from the start, the orchard achieved certified organic status in 1998. Over the years, it has become known for its high-quality, disease-free nuts and has been a steadfast advocate for chestnut farming in the American Midwest.

The orchard adheres strictly to organic farming methods, avoiding synthetic chemicals to protect the environment. Believing that tree crops are the most sustainable form of agriculture, the farm maintains a buffer of mixed tree species around its perimeter to shield against neighboring conventional corn and soybean farms. The orchard now boasts approximately 1200 nut trees cultivated under organic practices within this protective buffer.

Despite a challenging crop year, the orchard continues to supply organic chestnuts to local grocery stores in Kansas City and Lawrence. The orchard actively participates in industry groups like the Chestnut Growers of America and the Northern Nut Growers Association, contributing to the growing interest in chestnut farming as a sustainable alternative to conventional agriculture.