Why I Joined NAFDMA: A Member’s Perspective on Growth and Support: NAFDMA member Becky Walters of Walters Pumpkin Patch
Becky Walters’ story shows the heart of NAFDMA—where support, connection, and inspiration are always in season.
A Simple Visit That Changed Everything
When Becky Walters of Walters Pumpkin Patch first discovered NAFDMA, it wasn’t through a brochure or a website—it was through a conversation.
“We had gone to visit Steve and Cindy Fry at the Weston Red Barn in Missouri to see their operation. Steve told us about NAFDMA; we went—and we’ve been going back ever since.”
The results were almost immediate.
“Every year after we started with NAFDMA, we doubled our gross income. That was certainly our original incentive! Money! Hahaha!”
Support That Grows With You
Becky quickly learned that NAFDMA offered more than financial success. It became a trusted source of solutions and support for every stage of their business journey.
“I really don't have a specific example of how NAFDMA helped solve a challenge,” she shared. “Because everything about NAFDMA has helped—whether it was something we were already struggling with or something that popped up as we grew.”
One early memory stands out:
“I remember one bus trip where a member was talking about making pies in their bakery. I thought to myself, ‘We’ll never have to worry about a bakery...’ Hahaha! That was a long time ago!”
(Ask Becky if she sells pies at the farm now—we're guessing the answer is a sweet and flaky yes!)
The Power of Community
For Becky, the most valuable part of NAFDMA has always been the people. “I find the friendships and sharing of ideas and information to be the most amazing part of NAFDMA. It’s all one big family helping one another.” From casual conversations on the bus to deep bonds built over years, the spirit of collaboration runs strong in the NAFDMA community.
Giving Back Through Experience
Over the years, Becky’s role in the organization has shifted from student to mentor.
“As I’ve aged, I have more of the grandma wisdom that sometimes helps the younger members. I’ve done my time in NAFDMA—serving on the board, hosting Agritourism Learning Retreats, and being a bus guide.”
Though she may not be tech-savvy, Becky still brings a wealth of insight.
“I can’t answer the tech questions that come up now, but I can offer a different kind of wisdom that still has value.”
To Anyone Considering Joining…
Becky has a clear message for anyone on the fence about joining NAFDMA:
“Don’t just sit there—join the organization and you’ll never look back! Yes, you’re going to have to spend some money to join and participate, but you’ll get the return on investment in no time at all. Do it!”
When Legacy Becomes Real
One of Becky’s most emotional NAFDMA moments came when her grandson, Dacota, showed interest in continuing what she and her family had built.
“I used to hear a lot about legacy and handing down the farm. I always thought farming and land ownership was just a business. When you’re done, you sell it, divide it up, and move on. Easy enough.”
Then came a moment that changed her thinking. “One day I looked out the back door and saw our grandson Dacota pulling up in the big old grain truck, filling it with gas—and I cried. I cried like a baby thinking, ‘This is what the NAFDMA people were talking about. This is legacy.’ Dacota—if all goes according to plan—will be the next owner of Walters Pumpkin Patch.”
Unforgettable Bus Tours and Lifelong Friendships
Of course, Becky couldn’t reflect on her NAFDMA journey without remembering the legendary bus tours.
“I’m the oldest bus tour guide in the NAFDMA lineup. Oh, the fun that Tammy Peterson and I had on those trips! I wouldn’t have traded a single one of them for anything. They were the best—and Tammy and I have a long-distance friendship that will last for years to come.”
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