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.

This project evaluates the long-term practicality of the aquaponic enterprise for economic and environmental sustainability. The investigator is comparing three types of plant-growing materials(rock wool, pea gravel and floating rafts) in a recirculating aquaponic system to grow basil, lettuce and Nile tilapia. Future plans include use of native yellow perch in the system rather than the non-native tilapia.

This was the original project description: Investigators will detail a value chain analysis of locally grown produce in Iowa. Investigators will identify supply chain structures that support production and distribution using methodologies compatible with sustainable agriculture.

This was the original project description: The goal of this project is to develop a practical mechanical intra-row weed control solution for automatically removing weeds from vegetable crops for small and mid-scale Iowa growers. Investigators will explore an optical sensing system and a mechanism to remove weeds with minimal soil disturbance, crop damage and energy input. The project also will demonstrate the effectiveness and economic viability of the system.

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.

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.