NEW BERLIN, Wis. — A New Berlin farm that suffered devastating losses during August's flooding is now counting on pumpkin sales to survive the season, with just two weeks left to cover outstanding bills before closing for the year.
PREVIOUS COVERAGE | Flooding wipes out most of the fall crops at New Berlin family farm
Salentine’s Family Farm owner Landon Valenta said community support has been crucial after floodwaters destroyed much of his crops, but the damage turned out to be far worse than initially expected.
"After we talked, most of the cantaloupe ended up splitting on me. It was just too much rain," Valenta said.
Watch: New Berlin farmer fights to stay out of the red after the August floods
The flooding didn't just affect low-lying areas. Tomatoes on higher ground also took a beating, and jalapeños suffered significant damage. Much of the crop had to be tilled under completely.
"We actually had to till a lot of it under," Valenta said. “We took a beating on the tomatoes even though they are on higher ground. Jalapeños took a big hit. We actually had to till a lot of it under.”
The farm typically relies on produce sales throughout the season, with pumpkins providing a crucial end-of-season boost to finances.
"Usually, we can carry our own with produce, and pumpkins kind of help us catch up at the end of the season," Valenta said.
Despite FEMA assistance being available for homeowners and small businesses, Valenta said he isn't expecting any help for the farm. That makes the next two weeks critical for covering bills and planning for next year.
"My hope is that I will have enough to get the seed bill caught up," Valenta said. "Scrape by to get an operating loan for next year to get up and going."
Customers have noticed the quality of the remaining produce, with one shopper praising the farm's offerings even while shopping in the rain.
"They are beautiful. They lasted for weeks," the customer said.
Valenta acknowledged that the community response has made a difference during this challenging time.
"There is a lot of support from the community. A lot of customers came out to support," Valenta said.
The farm closes for the year on Friday, Oct. 31, Halloween night.
It’s located at 17585 W National Ave, New Berlin, WI 53146-3725.
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