Katie owns and operates PrairiErth Farm with her husband Hans, father-­‐in-­‐law Dave and her incredible staff. PrairiErth is a 300-­‐acre certified organic farm that raises a diverse selection of crops and livestock in Atlanta, Illinois. Katie markets these crops at farmers markets, through her CSA program and to local restaurants and stores. Due to the public’s support of local and organic food, Katie was able to leave her full time office job of 17 years to farm full time with her family. She’s committed to reestablishing the health of rural economics, through sustainable agriculture, good land stewardship, making local food accessible to all, and highlighting the role of woman farmers on today’s farms. Katie is also the author of The PrairiErth Farm Cookbook, Started the Farm to Food Pantry program and teaches others how to utilize social media to positively impact their business.