Rautio Berry Farm lies on Walstrom Road, where John Rautio hails directly from a first-generation Finnish family and maintains the original farmhouse, resting on fields of green that glow red with berries each summer. Rautio even uses a vintage planter machine: It takes two riders in the front, and someone walking behind to check for quality (usually his daughter, says Rautio). The end result is a harvest of plump, juicy strawberries that are bursting with flavor—a true delight for all the senses.
Rautio was mentored by fellow farmer and good friend, Ben Niemela.
“He has been a great mentor for me,” says Rautio. “Strawberry growers up here are one big family. If they need something, I’ll give it to them and if I need something, they give it to me. There’s no competition because there’s never enough strawberries!”
The Keweenaw’s strawberry season is not merely about enjoying the fruit, but about community, and the opportunity for individuals and families to engage in the harvest, make lifelong memories of enjoying strawberries with their loved ones, and support local farmers while doing so. The bloom of strawberry season serves as a reminder that amidst our differences, the love for these luscious berries unites us all.
Rautio Berry Farm
15245 Walstrom Road
Atlantic Mine, MI
rautiofarm1896@gmail.com
(906) 231-4895
Facebook: www.facebook.com/rautioberry
Photos & Article by Lily Venable
Our co-op utilizes the Policy Governance Ⓡ Model to clearly distinguish between the governance responsibilities of the board and the operational management responsibilities of the General Manager (GM). The board delegates operational responsibilities to the GM who has sole responsibility for them. For more about how the Board supervises the General Manager through policy, see our Governing Policies Page
Our staff work to keep the store running smoothly and ensure our community has access to high-quality food. We strive to offer a wide range of local, organic, and environmentally friendly products to support healthy and sustainable living. We’re here to support you on your journey towards a more conscious and delicious lifestyle.
As Shoppers, Owners relate directly to the staff team who are responsible for store operations. As voting Members, Owners elect the Board of Directors who, in turn, hires and supervises the General Manager (GM).
The Board of Directors hires and supervises just one operational employee: the General Manager. All subsequent staff supervision is fully delegated to the General Manager, who has sole discretion over all subsequent operational decisions.