We live in Andrew’s childhood home along the Middle Loup River, a place filled with history, memories, and a deep connection to the land. Gardening has always been something we enjoy, and each year we work to improve our space by trying new techniques and learning what works and what does not.
The idea of growing lavender took shape slowly. We spent a lot of time thinking about how to use the land in a way that would support both our family and the environment. Lavender stood out as the perfect specialty crop for our area. It grows well here, and since rabbits and deer dislike its scent, it can thrive even with the wildlife that is so common around us.
We settled on a one acre plot which is a part of a once thriving turkey ranch, Shinn Turkeys INC., we chose the location because it is very sandy soil, only about a mile from our home, there is pre existing water wells and plenty of room to expand our operation in the future.
Our vision comes from a simple love for growing plants and wanting to create something meaningful from the ground we call home. Through our lavender and the products we make from it, we hope to share beauty, calm, and a deeper appreciation for the land that inspires us every day.
MEET ANDREW
I grew up in Dunning, Nebraska raising turkeys on the ranch my Great Grandfather started in the early 1920s. We had about 96,000 turkeys at any given time on the ranch in Dunning, along with a 500 head cow operation, a feed mill in Gibbon and three other turkey operations in Gibbon, Kennesaw and Minden.
Currently I am a water well driller and fully understand the need to protect the natural resources that we are so fortunate to have. Ag business has always been a part of my life and nothing is more important to me than being good stewards of the land we are on now.
When Donnita came to me with the idea of raising lavender I thought she was crazy..just kidding..she wanted to start real small in the yard with a couple plants. Donnita was hoping to one day not have to work her office job. because of growing up in ag my whole life I realized that scaling would take too long so I suggested that instead of a handful of plants in the yard we go big or go home and start with one acre. (maybe I’m the crazy one)
My overall goal with Loup Lavender LLC is to bring the land to its former glory while creating an income to provide for our family capable of keeping the land in the family for the next 100 years all while getting to support Donnita’s dream and hopefully one day get to retire and pass down something we have built with blood, sweat, tears, backaches and love!
MEET DONNITA
I grew up in northeastern Colorado and moved to Nebraska in 2011. My love for plants, animals, and the natural world started when I was young and has stayed with me throughout my life. I enjoy many hands on hobbies, including making jewelry, creating tallow based skincare products, making artisan soaps, caring for houseplants, fishing, and gardening.
My idea of starting a lavender farm is my way of taking one simple, beautiful plant and turning it into something special. My goal is to create high quality value added products like essential oils, culinary items, and bath and body goods that bring a sense of health, beauty, and relaxation into everyday life.
I care deeply about sustainability and conservation, and I work to grow and create in a way that supports the land rather than taking from it. The farm is being built on mindful practices that protect soil, water, and wildlife so that its beauty can be enjoyed for years to come.
Everything I make is rooted in my passion for nature and my desire to share its benefits with others.
