Welcome To The Farm . . . . . .

Monarch Farms was established in 1990, by Mel and "Sparky" Mieske, on land that was once occupied, many years ago, by the Chippewa Indians. 

Mel jumped at the chance when the property was offered to him by the previous owners. As a boy, he had played on the sand ridges of this parcel, picking up arrowheads and flint pieces.
 
Since the land was in poor condition, the Mieskes vowed to reclaim the lost and unproductive land.  All the crops and livestock raised on the farm are managed using ecologically sound farming practices.

Three ponds were dug out, where sand had been previously removed, covering three acres in total.  Fish have also been introduced into the ponds by the depositing of eggs, or roe, from the feet of the local birds visiting the ponds, and by several interested anglers, who also contributed to the fish population by introducing minnows.

The ponds provide water to the strawberry and vegetable fields, and are an interesting part of the farm tours that the Mieske's offer to private groups and school children.

Besides being valuable for the irrigation of the farmland, it is Mel's dream to eventually establish rustic campsites, a minature golf course, and to host an annual bluegrass festival amid the peaceful ponds.

Visitors Always Welcome. . . . . .

Located in the thriving community of Midland, the farm is situated just north of US-10.  Mel and Sparky are always delighted to show off their farm and talk about the animals, and offer educational tours for individuals, families, and school or church groups.  If planning a visit to the area, contact the Mieske's and schedule a farm tour. 

A farm tour donation of $5.00 per person, aged 3 and over is requested, but not required.

Groups of 7 or more, will admit one adult FREE.

Plan a hayride, or hop a ride on the Butterfly Express to visit with the animals and learn a bit about their lives on the farm.

Milk a goat, feed a pig, or sample fresh goat milk cheeses direct from the Mid-Michigan Creamery, also located on the grounds.

Take a whirl at the "Duck Races", where participants rush to get their ducky across the finish line first.  $1.00 per duck.

For information on accommodations and other attractions in the area visit the Absolute Michigan Website