Small Business Spotlight: The Good Earth Farm continues to grow into one of Lennox area’s most unique destinations

What began as a vegetable farm has grown into one of the Lennox area’s most distinctive rural destinations, blending agriculture, food, events and animal care into a one-of-a-kind experience at The Good Earth Farm.

Owner Nancy Kirstein said the farm has evolved significantly since first opening in 2011.

“We’ve been open since 2011,” Kirstein said. “From 2011-2020 we were strictly a vegetable farm. In 2019 we started to refurbish our 1897 barn, which started the journey to what we are now: a farm that grows vegetables for our woodfired pizzas and flowers and pumpkins for you-pick experiences.”

That transformation helped shape the farm into a seasonal destination known for its food, scenic setting and special events. In addition to fresh produce and flowers, the property is now also home to The Good Earth Farm Animal Sanctuary, which houses more than 20 farm animals.

Today, the farm operates as a seasonal business offering woodfired pizza several days each week while also hosting private events, including weddings when not open to the public.

Kirstein said what makes the farm especially memorable is the atmosphere.

“The farm is a unique space to enjoy made-from-scratch pizza,” she said.

The farm also hosts several major seasonal events, including endurance competitions that draw visitors from across the region.

“We host several events throughout the summer including a 100K and 50K gravel ride and a 36-hour endurance race around our farm,” Kirstein said. “We were also featured in a Super Bowl ad for Google last year.”

Like many small business owners, Kirstein said one of the most difficult parts of growing the operation involved navigating regulations.

“Owning any small business is challenging,” she said. “Since our business is located where we live, there were zoning laws that were challenging to navigate.”

She said the process required patience and persistence.

“I spent a lot of time working with the county and my neighbors to make sure we were following all of the necessary regulations,” Kirstein said. “While the process ultimately took years, it helped me develop a relationship with my county neighbors, and for that I’m grateful.”

The farm relies on a dedicated seasonal team to keep operations running smoothly.

“We are a seasonal, multifaceted business with two different crews: one that helps with the growing part of the operation and one that helps with events and pizza nights,” Kirstein said. “During the summer there are around 15 people who work out here other than me. We’re a pretty tight-knit group who likes to work and have fun together.”

Among the farm’s best-known menu items is a pizza that celebrates local ingredients.

“We are known for our Elote, or Mexican Street Corn pizza,” Kirstein said. “It’s best when I can get fresh sweet corn from Dave and Gail at The Harvest.”

Looking ahead, Kirstein said visitors can expect more creativity in the coming season.

“All winter long I dream up events to host out here — 2026 is going to be fun,” she said.

Kirstein also credits the Lennox area community for helping the farm succeed.

“I love the help and support that I’ve received over the years,” she said. “I love that I don’t have to drive to Sioux Falls to fix all of the things that I break around here. Most businesses that I’ve dealt with are so helpful. I feel lucky to be in a community where people look out for each other.”

More information about the farm, upcoming events and seasonal offerings can be found through its social media channels or at its website www.thegoodearth.us