Fernholz Family
Pete Fernholz grew up on his family’s farm and in 1996 built a 700-sow farrow-to-finish operation. Pete also raised elk, and in 2005 the family purchased what is today known as Little Brook Dairy.
Pete is in partnership with his brother, Mark, and his family, milking 500 Jersey cows twice a day. With the use of sexed semen, the Fernholzes breed half their herd to beef and feed out 250 head per year. Pete also farms 1,200 acres of corn, soybeans, wheat and alfalfa.
Pete is a co-owner/operator of the farm. His wife, Nicole, is the executive director of the Alexandria Area Economic Development Commission and a key contributor to the success of the farm.
Pete and Nicole were involved in 4-H growing up and so were their children, Tatum, Riley and Gavryn. Pete has participated in the Douglas County Ag Association for six years, primarily working with 4-H and FFA. He is also a delegate for the Minnesota DHIA and the township board. Nicole is very active in the community. She’s been involved with the Lakes Area Professional Women’s group, Adria Theater, 4-H, the local Chamber of Commerce, the West Central Initiative Board, her family’s church, and more. In 2007, Pete and Nicole participated as leaders in Extension’s Emerging Leadership Program.