How to Support Local Farms in Iowa’s Cedar Valley
If you’re looking for ways to support local growers, check out a few unique and fun ways to enjoy the fruits of the Cedar Valley’s labor.
This article first appeared on Livability.com.
1) Farm-to-Table
Located on a former dairy farm, Barn Happy in Cedar Falls transitioned into a unique business offering locally made soups and sandwiches while staying close to its agricultural roots. The nearby Concept Kitchen at Second State Brewing sources local ingredients for its diverse menu inspired by world cuisines. At Greenhouse Kitchen locations in Cedar Falls and Waterloo, enjoy local ingredients on burritos, wraps and bowls in a casual atmosphere.
2) Amish & Mennonite Communities
Buchanan County is full of Amish-owned businesses that sell more than just produce; visitors can find everything from custom furniture to handmade quilts and harness supplies around Hazleton. For all your gardening needs, greenhouses like Detweiler’s Greenhouse stock annuals, perennials and vegetable starts. In nearby Chickasaw County, maps of all the vibrant Mennonite greenhouses are available at the Welcome Center in Nashua.
3) U-Pick
Seasonal U-pick opportunities let visitors choose their own fresh produce straight from the fields and trees. Blueridge Orchard in Denver is a local family-owned farm with apples aplenty. And if you haven’t had your fill of apples, Timeless Prairie Orchard has 21 varieties to choose from, with an on-site market featuring delicious homemade goods. At Hoffman Produce Farms in Waterloo, take your pick of berries and more during the late summer and early fall months.
See more: Farms in Iowa’s Cedar Valley Foster a Deeper Connection to Nature Through Agritourism
4) Classes and Events
To get more involved with local farms, try taking a class or attending one of many events held throughout the area. We Arose in Waterloo has a focus on community wellness, which includes a monthly community bike ride for all experience levels. Engelbrecht Farm in Waverly hosts a book club, yoga on the farm and flower arranging workshops. At Three Pines Farm, visitors can enjoy everything from live music to pizza under the stars and ice cream from the back of a vintage farm truck.
5) Community Supported Agriculture
Community-supported agriculture (CSA) is a great way to support local farmers, especially during the off season. CSA subscriptions allow farms to use the money received up front to fund their purchases for the season, from seeds and starts to soil and nutrients. Iowa State University has a directory of CSAs available across the entire state. Add locally grown flowers to your table from farms like TwoMorrows Acres and Engelbrecht Farm, available for pickup at multiple locations in the area.
6) Farmers Markets
Farmers markets are an ideal way to connect with local farmers and purchase fresh produce. The Cedar Valley has plenty of options, including Waterloo Urban Farmers Market, Cedar Falls Farmers Market, Waverly Farmers Market, Independence Farmers Market and the New Hampton Farmers Market.