U.S. Sen. Tom Carper visits The Funny Farm to see new upgrade

FELTON, De.- To improve their future in central Delaware, The Funny Farm bought into a bright idea.

Nicole and Ken Wilkins took their poultry farm to the next level by installing solar panels.

“We had originally thought that we might put them on the buildings, then we decided not to, because we didn’t want the weight on the buildings,” Nicole Wilkins said. “We feel like they’re not bad to look at.”

And they’re happy with the new upgrade.

“It’s not even a year yet and we’re pleased with what they’re doing and what they’re producing,” Ken Wilkins said.

Two rows of solar panels sit at the front of their farm, greeting visitors, like Senator Tom carper.

“We came here to see why a farmer would want to have solar panels on his or her property and it turns out, economically, it makes sense,” Senator Carper said.

Aside from the economic benefits of the solar panels, Senator Carper said the Wilkins are also doing their part in preserving the environment.

“They’re being good stewards of the planet,” Senator Carper said.

“I want to make sure in 100 years or 1,000 years we still have farmers in agriculture in Delaware,” Senator Carper said. “I want to make sure that it will continue to be sustainable.”

For farmers who want to add solar panels to their farm, the Wilkins have a word of advice.

“I would say run the numbers– make sure it’s good for their situation and ask questions and ask other people who have them,” Nicole Wilkins said.