Running a family business is often filled with unique challenges, especially in agriculture.
But for Tim Vala, founder of Vala’s Pumpkin Patch and Apple Orchard, the focus has always been on family and creating a lasting legacy.
The pumpkin patch and apple orchard has grown to become the largest agritourism destination in Nebraska. What started as a small operation now covers 400 acres, offering hayrides, corn mazes, farm animals, food, a small rollercoaster and countless other attractions that keep people coming back year after year.
Vala says the transition to involving his three daughters in the business began with an open conversation.
“I sat down with them when I was 55 and told them, you know, by the time I’m 65, I’ll probably want to retire.”
He said he wanted to give them the opportunity to continue the business, but he didn’t want to pressure them.
With all three daughters now involved in the day-to-day operations, Vala credits regular communication as key to their success.
“We have a family meeting every week. We always say it’ll take 45 minutes to an hour, but it usually ends up being an hour and a half to two hours,” Vala said. “But it’s been huge for talking things through and making sure everyone knows what’s expected.”
At the end of the day, Vala’s vision is to see the business continues to thrive, bringing joy to hundreds of thousands of visitors while keeping the family tradition alive for future generations.
“I didn’t only a business for me, but for others too,”
Watch or listen to the full conversation in the Building Nebraska Podcast, powered by the Engler Agribusiness Entrepreneurship Program at the University of Nebraska – Lincoln.
