Since the 1850s, Josh Sickinger’s family has owned land in Lowell, Indiana, which is now Harvest Tyme Family Farm – a proud family business that Josh has owned and operated since 2007.

Harvest Tyme has grown into a family favorite spot, whether it’s for Tulip season, the annual fall festival, or holiday festivities, Harvest Tyme provides special attractions and unique experiences for the whole family. Currently, Harvest Tyme grows pumpkins on a large scale.

Josh relies on the freedom to use his land for his small business. That’s why he took advantage of the opportunity to grow his business by developing a new portion of his land after a state law passed relating to the classification of wetlands. His interpretation of the law made his property class less restrictive, allowing for the development project. He immediately consulted with an environmental expert and got to work.

That’s why he was shocked when the Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) disagreed with his assessment and that of his consultant. Josh had no choice but to hire an attorney to fight for his property rights. The discrepancy eventually resulted in a permanent deed restriction for one acre of his property he was planning to develop.

Having a permanent deed restriction was not an option for Josh, but he didn’t have unlimited time or money to continue fighting this legal battle. That’s why he contacted NFIB’s Indiana State Director, Natalie Robinson, to see if NFIB could help.

NFIB stepped in and got Josh in contact with the appropriate government offices and elected officials to advocate for his small business. The end result was a win: IDEM dropped the permanent deed restriction and Josh was able to move forward with his development project to help grow his small business. This was a win for his community as well because his farm attractions bring tourism to his rural town from around the state.

NFIB was proud to help Josh avoid costly legal fees, connect with government agencies and elected officials, and find a solution that benefited his small business.

Be sure to check out Harvest Tyme’s Fall Festival – happening now with their special Pumpkin Glow LED light display!