Over 23 years, Bill Davidson has made carefully calibrated shifts to improve farm profits. After completing farm financial plans and on-farm research, Davidson switched from growing burley tobacco to a mix of fruit and vegetables - pumpkins, watermelons, sweet corn and table grapes among them - as well as beef cows. He also raises a miniature petting zoo for fall farm tours.

Much of the farm terrain is steep, so Davidson established permanent pastures and practices rotational grazing. After a rigorous environmental assessment, Davidson began farming on the contour and using cover crops. The operation supports his whole family, including his retired parents. At a newly renovated on-site store and at a cooperative farm website, they sell produce and value-added products Davidson creates at a SARE-supported community kitchen in Treadway, Tenn. Davidson employs three full-time employees, hosts numerous school tours and runs Pumpkin Valley Days for the community.