Meet The Berning Family

Berning Acres is a third-generation family-owned dairy farm located in northwest Illinois, ten minutes from downtown Galena, Illinois. Berning Acres was founded in 1973 when Matt’s parents, John and Ellen, began with 120 acres, 30 cows, and seven children.

Today, Matt and Natalie Berning own and operate the farm, caring for approximately 400 cows and farming over 800 acres, with the help of a dedicated team. Matt oversees daily dairy operations, herd health, and crop management, while Natalie leads education, agritourism, and consumer outreach through farm tours, Kids’ Farm Camp, school programs, and special events.

Matt fell in love with dairy farming at an early age and learned the value of hard work and responsibility from his parents and grandparents. After high school, he earned a degree in dairy herd management and agribusiness, bringing new technology and innovation back to the farm—supported by his parents’ willingness to grow and adapt. Natalie married into the farm and discovered a passion for sharing agriculture’s story.

The best part of farming is knowing our work matters every day—caring for animals, producing nutritious food, and raising the next generation with strong values. Watching their five children and farm guests build real connections to agriculture is especially meaningful.

One thing the Bernings want people to know is that real families stand behind their food. Modern dairy farming is rooted in science, sustainability, and deep care for animals, and transparency is something they are proud to share.

Galena, Illinois

We Raise

Our children are an integral part of daily life at Berning Acres—from helping with chores to welcoming visitors and leading farm tours. Being raised on a dairy farm teaches responsibility, teamwork, and a deep respect for animals and agriculture.

It’s a privilege to welcome groups of all kinds to our family farm—from moms’ nights out and today’s dairy consumers, to school groups filled with the littlest dairy fans, and everyone in between. We believe the farm is a place for all ages to learn, connect, and experience firsthand where their food comes from.

Although dairy farming is a great deal of work, it also has many advantages, such as the ability to walk to work and, of course, the gorgeous sunsets.

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Have a question or just want to say thanks for all they do? Get in touch with the family farmers.

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Great job! Keep up the good work.

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