NISSENFARMS,LLC.
A Century of Sustainable Growth with Farm Credit in the Heart of the San Luis Valley
“My grandfather came from Denmark, and I’ve got the original deed to our farm from 1925,” begins Lyle Nissen, the thirdgeneration farmer at the helm of Nissen Farms Nestled in the heart of the San Luis Valley, this statement encapsulates the century-long journey of a family intertwined with Colorado soil.
Since its establishment in 1925, Nissen Farms has become an integral thread in the vibrant fabric of the San Luis Valley community. Their journey has been a testament to adaptability, innovation, and resilience.
Facing economic challenges, such as 20% interest rates in the 1980s, the farming community in the valley was under strain Lyle recalls, “People were going out of business. But with our deep ties to this land and its community, we survived, and here we are today ”
Today, Nissen Farms isn’t just a farming entity; it represents the spirit of the San Luis Valley. Lyle and Erin, together, are pioneers in sustainable agricultural practices Lyle explained their innovative approach: “We have three rotations in the field at one time, dividing the circle into a Y shape
We leave one section unplanted to let the soil rest and rejuvenate.” This sustainable method ensures the ground remains fertile and is a testament to their commitment to the San Luis Valley’s environment.
The baton is transitioning to Erin Nissen, the fourth generation. Erin shares, “I’m the fourth generation on this farm, echoing her family’s dedication to the San Luis Valley. When you talk about sustainability and regenerative farming, it’s all coming full circle from what my great-grandfather and grandfather did right here in this valley.”
Farm Credit of Southern Colorado’s longstanding ties to the San Luis Valley has been a cornerstone in Nissen Farms’ journey. Lyle warmly recalls, “Farm Credit has been with us for a long time, helping us in bad times and good.” Leah, their dedicated loan officer, reinforces this deep bond, ensuring the Nissens receive the financial guidance tailored to their unique needs.
Nissen Farms’ commitment to the San Luis Valley community extends beyond their fields. Lyle frequently emphasizes the importance of this bond, “The sense of community here is unparalleled. We don’t just farm; we are part of this community’s fabric.” Erin adds, “The young farmers are our future. We have to be supportive of them.” This sentiment resonates with Farm Credit’s ethos, championing the next generation of agricultural leaders in the San Luis Valley.
A key figure in this shared narrative is Leah Beyond mere transactions, Lyle speaks highly of her, “Leah understands our needs, our challenges. She knows farming isn’t just about numbers; it’s about people, legacy, the land, and the community we’re rooted in.”
“Farm Credit has been with us for a long time, helping us in bad times and good.”
- Lyle Nissen, Nissen Farms
Both Nissen Farms and Farm Credit of Southern Colorado envision a future in which the San Luis Valley remains a sustainable agriculture hub. They hope for a world where farming adapts and innovates, and upholds the valley’s strong community spirit. Erin captures this sentiment perfectly, “It’s about ensuring the land is here for the next generation and that it’s even better than when we got it.”
In the dynamic landscape of Colorado’s San Luis Valley, Nissen Farms emerges as a symbol of resilience, innovation, and an unyielding commitment to the community. Alongside partners like Farm Credit, they cultivate more than just crops – they nurture hope, growth, and a sustainable legacy for the valley’s future.
“It’s about ensuring the land is here for the next generation and that it’s even better than when we got it.”
- Erin Nissen, Nissen Farms