Vann Fussel, an NC State student, first got involved with the IFFS Teaching Farm through a volunteer project for his Agroecology class. When looking for a summer farm internship or apprenticeship to get more hands-on experience farming, he happened to run into IFFS Farm Manager Sun Butler, and now Vann has a plot of his own at the IFFS Teaching Farm as part of our Incubator Farm program.
This summer, Vann is grew lots of tomatoes and basil, along with some other summer produce – squash, eggplant, peppers, and a few flowers. He’s looking forward to testing out new techniques he learns in his classes, continuing to grow and share vegetables, planting more beneficial flowers, and maybe even planting some blueberry bushes.
Farming is definitely in Vann’s long-term plans. His grandmother owns an old family farm currently not in use, and Vann hopes to move out there one day to start a larger, sustainable farm
The IFFS Incubator Farm Program supports and grows new viable, independent farm businesses and aims to serve as a model new-farmer program.
You can help support our agricultural training programs by donating today, or help sustain them year-round by becoming a monthly Ground-Level Giver! Or want to get your hands in the dirt, connect to where your food comes from, and help grow wholesome produce? Volunteer on our Teaching Farm!