Farming in the rich muck soils of southeastern Wisconsin might sound like the perfect setup—and in many ways, it is. But as Corey Kincaid of Dean Kincaid Inc. will tell you, it also comes with its share of challenges, changes and constant adaptation.
Kincaid represents the third generation of his family to farm in Palmyra, Wisconsin, on land his grandfather, Dean, purchased in 1950 after earlier onion-growing ventures in Michigan and Florida. Today, that legacy continues across Jefferson, Waukesha and Walworth counties, with a strong focus on onions and a smaller acreage of red potatoes.
While the farm once operated at nearly 6,000 acres, it now sits at just under 2,500 tilled acres. That shift wasn’t accidental—it was strategic. Portions of the land have transitioned into solar energy production and restored wetlands through the Department of Natural Resources. Kincaid says diversification has become essential to keeping the farm viable long-term, even branching into apartment and office development in the Milwaukee area. “It’s nice having some assets with a roof on them,” he noted, especially in an industry so dependent on weather.
Despite these changes, onions remain the heart of the operation. Kincaid grows several varieties, including Braddock, Bradley and Safrane, along with early-maturing types like Oneida and Killington. Each year, the farm also plants test plots to evaluate new varieties—an important step in a crop where progress can take years.
One of the biggest shifts on the farm has been the adoption of advanced technology. Kincaid has integrated artificial intelligence into daily operations, using tools like the Carbon Robotics Laserweeder, an Ecorobotix sprayer and robotic graders in the packing shed. These tools are helping reduce labor costs, cut herbicide use and improve overall efficiency.
The results have been significant. Kincaid reports yield increases of around 20 percent, with a larger size profile in onions—an important factor for market value. The technology has also improved weed control, accelerated crop maturity and strengthened plant health.
Even with technology advancing, the land itself presents ongoing challenges. About half of the farm sits on muck soil—high in organic matter but gradually decomposing over time. In fact, Kincaid notes that the soil has subsided so much since the 1950s that old drainage tiles are now being hit by modern equipment. Maintaining proper drainage has become more important than irrigation, especially as nearby river levels now sit above parts of the farm.
To stay ahead, Kincaid is experimenting with growing onions on mineral soils like Plano silt loam, while also refining nutrient management. Thanks to the natural nitrogen released by muck soils, the farm uses relatively low fertilizer rates, helping reduce costs and environmental impact.
Like many growers, Kincaid has had to adjust to changing markets. Red potatoes, once a major crop, have declined in demand as baby potatoes gained popularity. Today, only about 60 acres remain in potato production, with the majority of the farm focused on onions.
Beyond production, Kincaid remains active in industry organizations, including the Wisconsin Potato & Vegetable Growers Association and the Wisconsin Muck Farmers Association. He also participates in National Onion Association meetings, emphasizing the value of learning directly from other growers. “There are fewer and fewer muck farmers,” he said, making collaboration and shared knowledge more important than ever.
Sustainability is another area where the farm continues to evolve. From grid soil sampling and variable-rate fertilizer applications to cover crops and reduced chemical use, Kincaid is focused on improving efficiency while protecting the land. The farm also gives back to the community, donating tens of thousands of pounds of onions each year to Feeding America and supporting local FFA and school programs.
At its core, Dean Kincaid Inc. is still a family operation. Corey works alongside his brother and brother-in-law, with guidance from his father, Gary, who remains involved in key decisions.
In an industry where conditions are always shifting—from markets to weather to technology—Kincaid’s approach reflects a balance of tradition and forward thinking. The muck soil may not last forever, but with careful planning, innovation and diversification, this Wisconsin farm is working to ensure its legacy does.
