Machinery and equipment needs are far different for vegetable farms than for commodity production units. This project explored the unique machinery access options for small and mid-sized horticulture operations.

The project developed a curriculum to improve productivity along with follow-up classes and services to help small meat processors in Iowa. The lessons covered scheduling, product mix decisions, retail inventory management, and shop floor performance measurement.

An array of equipment is available to help fruit and vegetable growers with specialized production and processing tasks. This study examined ways for these small operators to share equipment and maximize their use of the shared implements.

Ramping up production from direct sales to providing goods for wholesale markets means farmers must acquire new skills and competencies. Working through a farmer cooperative, producers were offered education on food safety and how to expand their operations.

An existing MS Excel computer-based program (FARMOR) was further developed and enhanced to assist niche market producers in making appropriate and profitable choices for their enterprises.

Being able to share data about actual production and sales is critical to the success of producers hoping to purchase crop insurance or obtain a loan. This project helped a group of small producers figure out recordkeeping within their operations as a start to creating a baseline for Iowa fruit and vegetable production.