The Inter-Faith Food Shuttle Farm has reached an exciting milestone with the expansion of two additional acres of land. This growth allows us to produce more fresh, nutritious food for our neighbors and strengthen our ability to meet increasing needs across our community.
We have been generously given access to two new acres of land adjacent to the farm. Because these fields are surrounded by horse pasture, a buffer is required on each side to support food safety and ensure the comfort of the horses. As a result, approximately 1.5 acres are available for vegetable production.
To prepare the new field for growing vegetables, the soil must be carefully restored. This includes tiling to break up compaction, planting cover crops to improve soil texture and nutrients, and amending with compost and other organic matter. Over the winter, the field was planted in oats and clover, which add organic matter, help relieve compaction, and naturally infuse nitrogen into the soil.
These new acres are already playing an important role in the farm’s long-term health. A pollinator plot has been established next to the hydroponics greenhouse to support healthy crops and sustainability across the farm. The farm team will continue transitioning the new acreage through a variety of cover crops this spring and summer, with plans to plant the first vegetable crop this fall.
Expanding our farm is about more than adding land. It gives us the ability to grow a greater variety of crops, improve soil health, and increase the amount of nutrient rich food we can distribute. More growing space means more fruits and vegetables will reach neighbors in our community.
If you are interested in getting more involved, volunteer opportunities are available throughout the year and play an important role in making this work possible.
We are excited about what these new acres will allow us to grow and the impact they will have in the months and years ahead!