GET TO KNOW US

WHO WE ARE

We have been seed collectors for over 40 years. In 2002 we purchased our farm as a bare land plot previously used as pasture, now restored to wetlands, fen, sedge meadow, prairie and our seed orchard. We felt this was necessary to help preserve the native trees, shrubs and plants we had seen being in decline over the past several years. The orchard assures us of a source to continue to supply native seed to nurseries and individuals.

We love nature and being stewards of the land.

PAT HAYES

Pat is an avid environmentalist. He graduated from the Woodland Manager Program and the Master Conservationist Program. He has attended countless environmental conferences on subjects including native landscaping, agroforesty, mapping of exotic plants, prairie restoration and perennial plants. Pat devotes numerous hours volunteering and leading workshops on bluebirds, kestrels and wood ducks. He built and maintained a bluebird trail with approximately 50 houses for over 18 years. He has assisted with numerous tree plantings including Jackson County Conservation Board at Blackhawk Wildlife Area, Trees Forever in Dubuque and Prairie restoration at the Ozark Wildlife Area. In addition he has been involved with management of Dubuque County Conservation Society properties and has served as the President for the association several times.

DEBRA HAYES

Debra is an accomplished gardener. She completed the Master Gardener cerficiation in 2003. She continues to enhance her horticulture and agriculture education by attending conferences on various subjects including flower and herb growing, shade tree short courses and prairie restoration. Debra owns and operates White Water Doves, based at the farm, which offers custom dove releases for special events. She was past President and Treasurer of the National White Dove Release Society. White Water Doves participates annually in the Hospice of Jackson County Memorial event and Workers Memorial Day in Dubuque.

“When life hands you dirt plant seeds.”

― Matshona Dhliwayo

OUR RECOGNITIONS

Pat was awarded the Haige Heritage Award in October 2003. This award is for dedicated conservation volunteers and professionals who are the keys to protecting Iowa’s natural beauty. The Lawrence and Eula Hagie Heritage Award has been given yearly through the Iowa Natural Heritage Foundation since 1989.

White Water Farm was honored at the Trees Forever 20th Anniversary Celebration. We were named as one of the top 20 projects for Trees Forever's first 20 years. Trees Forever mission – to plant and care for trees and the environment by empowering people, building community, and promoting stewardship – is fulfilled through cutting-edge programs and innovative practices.

LET US KNOW

We would like to help you fulfill your wish list. Let us know what seeds your are looking for.