<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?><rss version="2.0" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:wfw="http://wellformedweb.org/CommentAPI/" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:slash="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/slash/" > <channel> <title>Info Archives - Field to Family</title> <atom:link href="https://fieldtofamily.org/category/info/feed/" rel="self" type="application/rss+xml" /> <link>https://fieldtofamily.org/category/info/</link> <description>Your Local Food Hub & Market</description> <lastBuildDate>Thu, 16 May 2024 16:33:31 +0000</lastBuildDate> <language>en-US</language> <sy:updatePeriod> hourly </sy:updatePeriod> <sy:updateFrequency> 1 </sy:updateFrequency> <generator>https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1</generator> <image> <url>https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/12/FTF-Icon-Green-1-150x150.png</url> <title>Info Archives - Field to Family</title> <link>https://fieldtofamily.org/category/info/</link> <width>32</width> <height>32</height> </image> <item> <title>2021 Iowa Local Food Day</title> <link>https://fieldtofamily.org/2021-iowa-local-food-day/</link> <comments>https://fieldtofamily.org/2021-iowa-local-food-day/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[michellekenyon]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 13 Oct 2021 12:59:26 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Farm to School]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Info]]></category> <category><![CDATA[update]]></category> <category><![CDATA[farm to school]]></category> <category><![CDATA[farmers market]]></category> <category><![CDATA[food hub]]></category> <category><![CDATA[fresh produce]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Iowa Local Food Day]]></category> <category><![CDATA[local]]></category> <category><![CDATA[organic]]></category> <category><![CDATA[schools]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://fieldtofamily.org/?p=4387</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>On October 13th, school districts, community centers, and private schools across the state participate in Iowa Local Food Day, a Farm to School initiative that brings food from local Iowa farmers to students throughout Iowa. Field to Family is honored and excited to once again procure delicious, healthy, local produce for kids across the state! [...]</p> <p><a class="btn btn-secondary understrap-read-more-link" href="https://fieldtofamily.org/2021-iowa-local-food-day/">Read More...</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/2021-iowa-local-food-day/">2021 Iowa Local Food Day</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org">Field to Family </a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;"><img fetchpriority="high" decoding="async" class="alignnone size-medium wp-image-4393" src="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/iowa-local-food-day-2021-4-225x300.png" alt="" width="225" height="300" srcset="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/iowa-local-food-day-2021-4-225x300.png 225w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/iowa-local-food-day-2021-4-768x1024.png 768w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/iowa-local-food-day-2021-4-1152x1536.png 1152w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/iowa-local-food-day-2021-4-1536x2048.png 1536w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/iowa-local-food-day-2021-4.png 1728w" sizes="(max-width: 225px) 100vw, 225px" /></span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">On October 13th, school districts, community centers, and private schools across the state participate in Iowa Local Food Day, a Farm to School initiative that brings food from local Iowa farmers to students throughout Iowa. Field to Family is honored and excited to once again procure delicious, healthy, local produce for kids across the state! </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">For 2021, Field to Family sourced 16 local crops from 8 farmers to 8 school districts in our region! We enjoy partnering with school Nutrition Directors and food service staff to source local and healthy to our next generation! 2021 Iowa Local Food Day ! </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Enjoying local for lunch this week includes over 50 school buildings and 8 school districts, sourced from 8 local farmers! </span></p> <ul> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/ICCSDNutritionServices/?__cft__[0]=AZWCj_0qf3tuTVlcElTZPpCDRgPDxAFJm8-dws7nEYlYx0redpwlfg74hq_WQUThkw6SS3QlILKz0Ox5NdDxSth9H6Ve9z102DzYiOP7HK4tGP5kt7VqG9ngDkm-jYkJ7JUyABue_OsUWH_QvN-1yoHPtcfho6yj8-UoKOFj7u3u6XtUfLlX43P_4Shw8gOpbq0&__tn__=kK-R"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Iowa City Schools Nutrition Services Department</span></a></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;"> College Community School District</span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Clear Creek Amana Community School District</span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Williamsburg Community School District</span></li> <li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/VSProud/?__cft__[0]=AZWCj_0qf3tuTVlcElTZPpCDRgPDxAFJm8-dws7nEYlYx0redpwlfg74hq_WQUThkw6SS3QlILKz0Ox5NdDxSth9H6Ve9z102DzYiOP7HK4tGP5kt7VqG9ngDkm-jYkJ7JUyABue_OsUWH_QvN-1yoHPtcfho6yj8-UoKOFj7u3u6XtUfLlX43P_4Shw8gOpbq0&__tn__=kK-R"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">Vinton Shellsburg Community Schools</span></a></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Solon Community School District</span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Union Community School District</span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Williamsburg Community Childcare</span></li> </ul> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">While a few of these institutions serve locally sourced food items regularly, on Iowa Local Food Day, they make it a celebration and often serve several local items! </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Special thanks to Buffalo Ridge Orchard, Country View Dairy, WW Homestead Dairy, Grimm Family Farms, Friendly Farm, Wilson’s Orchard, Flint Ridge Organics and All Seasons Harvest. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">List of local foods on the school lunch menu this week: </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Apples (LOTS!) Kale, Cherry Tomatoes, Grape Tomatoes, Delicata Squash, Cucumbers, Zucchini, Green Bell Peppers, Red Bell Peppers, Butternut Squash, Potatoes, cottage cheese, and Yogurt (regular, greek and frozen!). </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Learn more about the statewide celebration here:</span><a href="https://www.iowalocalfoodday.org/?fbclid=IwAR0nb5b1z9SibcJWWfwrTak-pChdFEljAoEY2wxL5WLYPz39Yy4s4zgppyo"> <span style="font-weight: 400;">https://www.iowalocalfoodday.org/</span></a></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Additionally, we are working with FoodCorps who brings the Pick a Better Snack program to 6 schools in the Cedar Rapids Community School District to help them celebrate a week of local food Oct. 18-22, as October is Farm to School month.</span></p> <p> </p> <p>The post <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/2021-iowa-local-food-day/">2021 Iowa Local Food Day</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org">Field to Family </a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://fieldtofamily.org/2021-iowa-local-food-day/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Field to Family Staff – Meet Emily!</title> <link>https://fieldtofamily.org/field-to-family-staff-meet-emily/</link> <comments>https://fieldtofamily.org/field-to-family-staff-meet-emily/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[michellekenyon]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 08 Oct 2021 14:25:26 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[hub]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Info]]></category> <category><![CDATA[update]]></category> <category><![CDATA[farmers market]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Field to Family]]></category> <category><![CDATA[iowa]]></category> <category><![CDATA[iowa city]]></category> <category><![CDATA[local]]></category> <category><![CDATA[local food]]></category> <category><![CDATA[OFM]]></category> <category><![CDATA[procurement]]></category> <category><![CDATA[staff]]></category> <category><![CDATA[sustainability]]></category> <category><![CDATA[volunteer]]></category> <category><![CDATA[wholesale]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://fieldtofamily.org/?p=4378</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>New Staff Alert! Field to Family is proud to introduce our new Operations Manager, Emily! We are excited to welcome a fresh member to our team who is as passionate about local food systems as we are! As Operations Manager, Emily serves a vital role in connecting farmers and producers with our local community to [...]</p> <p><a class="btn btn-secondary understrap-read-more-link" href="https://fieldtofamily.org/field-to-family-staff-meet-emily/">Read More...</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/field-to-family-staff-meet-emily/">Field to Family Staff – Meet Emily!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org">Field to Family </a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-4379" src="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/emily-Roberts-300x225.png" alt="" width="348" height="261" srcset="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/emily-Roberts-300x225.png 300w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/emily-Roberts-1024x768.png 1024w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/emily-Roberts-768x576.png 768w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/emily-Roberts-1536x1152.png 1536w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/10/emily-Roberts-2048x1536.png 2048w" sizes="(max-width: 348px) 100vw, 348px" /></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">New Staff Alert!</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Field to Family is proud to introduce our new Operations Manager, Emily! We are excited to welcome a fresh member to our team who is as passionate about local food systems as we are! As Operations Manager, Emily serves a vital role in connecting farmers and producers with our local community to make our Online Farmers Market a success week after week! In addition to coordinating volunteers, she also connects with local vendors, universities, schools and care centers to advance Field to Family’s wholesale efforts. In short, Emily makes sure Field to Family’s mission to create sustainable and healthy local food systems runs smoothly! We’ll let Emily introduce herself below:</span></p> <p> </p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Greetings! </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">I’m Emily Roberts, and I’m so excited to introduce myself as Field to Family’s new Operations Manager. I’ve had a great first few days learning the ins and outs of the organization and I’m so passionate about bringing local food to as many people as possible. Starting in college ten years ago, I knew I needed to be a part of a food system that sustains and supports farmers, consumers, and the planet. I found volunteer organizations and work-share opportunities throughout this time to fulfill this interest, but I always dreamed of diving in deep with my career and dedicating myself wholeheartedly to healthfulness through food. I have a background in corporate leadership that will carry over into this management role – you can always expect friendliness and professionalism from me! </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">So here I am! Committed to producers and consumers and ready to take on what Field to Family needs to make our local food system flourish. I look forward to building relationships with my coworkers, volunteers, farmers, and customers. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Peas and carrots,</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Emily</span></p> <p>The post <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/field-to-family-staff-meet-emily/">Field to Family Staff – Meet Emily!</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org">Field to Family </a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://fieldtofamily.org/field-to-family-staff-meet-emily/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Sustainable Farming Practices Explained</title> <link>https://fieldtofamily.org/sustainable-farming-practices/</link> <comments>https://fieldtofamily.org/sustainable-farming-practices/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Julia Poska]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 13 Apr 2021 22:29:42 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[dig in]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Info]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category> <category><![CDATA[agriculture]]></category> <category><![CDATA[aquaponics]]></category> <category><![CDATA[certified organic]]></category> <category><![CDATA[cover crops]]></category> <category><![CDATA[farming]]></category> <category><![CDATA[hydroponics]]></category> <category><![CDATA[organic]]></category> <category><![CDATA[rotation]]></category> <category><![CDATA[soil]]></category> <category><![CDATA[sustainable]]></category> <category><![CDATA[water]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://fieldtofamily.org/?p=3968</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>What the hay are cover crops? What’s the difference between produce that’s Certified Organic or organically grown? Scroll through to learn more about some common sustainable farming practices in Iowa.     Want to learn more about your favorite farmers’ practices? Check out the producer page on our online storefront for more information about our [...]</p> <p><a class="btn btn-secondary understrap-read-more-link" href="https://fieldtofamily.org/sustainable-farming-practices/">Read More...</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/sustainable-farming-practices/">Sustainable Farming Practices Explained</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org">Field to Family </a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<div class="ss-inline-share-wrapper ss-left-inline-content ss-small-icons ss-with-spacing ss-rounded-icons ss-without-labels"><div class="ss-inline-share-content"><ul class="ss-social-icons-container"><li class=""><a href="#" aria-label="Facebook" data-ss-ss-link="https://www.facebook.com/sharer.php?t=Sustainable%20Farming%20Practices%20Explained&u=https%3A%2F%2Ffieldtofamily.org%2Fcategory%2Finfo%2Ffeed%2F" class="ss-facebook-color" rel="nofollow noopener" data-ss-ss-network-id="facebook" 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height="32" viewBox="0 0 32 32" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg"><path d="M25.333 15.333h-8v-8c0-0.733-0.6-1.333-1.333-1.333s-1.333 0.6-1.333 1.333v8h-8c-0.733 0-1.333 0.6-1.333 1.333s0.6 1.333 1.333 1.333h8v8c0 0.733 0.6 1.333 1.333 1.333s1.333-0.6 1.333-1.333v-8h8c0.733 0 1.333-0.6 1.333-1.333s-0.6-1.333-1.333-1.333z"></path></svg></i><span class="ss-reveal-label-wrap"><span class="ss-network-label">More</span></span></span></a></li></ul></div></div> <p>What the hay are cover crops? What’s the difference between produce that’s Certified Organic or organically grown? Scroll through to learn more about some common sustainable farming practices in Iowa.</p> <p> </p> <div class="wpcp-carousel-wrapper wpcp-wrapper-3970"> <div id="wpcp-preloader-3970" class="wpcp-carousel-preloader"><img decoding="async" src="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/plugins/wp-carousel-free/public/css/spinner.svg" alt="Preloader Image" /></div> <div class="wpcp-carousel-content-wrapper"> <div id="sp-wp-carousel-free-id-3970" class="wpcp-carousel-section sp-wpcp-3970 nav-vertical-center wpcp-image-carousel wpcp-preloader wpcp-standard" data-swiper='{ "accessibility":true, "spaceBetween":20, "arrows":true, "freeMode": false, "autoplay":true, "effect": "slide", "centerMode": false, "autoplaySpeed":10000, "dots":true, "infinite":true, "speed":600, "pauseOnHover":true, "slidesToShow":{"lg_desktop":1, "desktop": 1, "laptop": 1, "tablet": 1, "mobile": 1}, "responsive":{"desktop":1200, "laptop": 980, "tablet": 736, "mobile": 480}, "rtl":false, "lazyLoad": "false", "swipe": true, "draggable": true, "swipeToSlide":false }' dir="ltr"> <div class="swiper-wrapper"> <div class="swiper-slide"> <div class="wpcp-single-item"> <div class="wpcp-slide-image"> <img decoding="async" class="skip-lazy" src="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/1-1-768x768.png" alt="1" width="640" height="640"> </div> </div> </div> <div class="swiper-slide"> <div class="wpcp-single-item"> <div class="wpcp-slide-image"> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="skip-lazy" src="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Responsible-Practices-1-1-768x768.png" alt="Responsible Practices (1)" width="640" height="640"> </div> </div> </div> <div class="swiper-slide"> <div class="wpcp-single-item"> <div class="wpcp-slide-image"> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="skip-lazy" src="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/3-1-768x768.png" alt="3" width="640" height="640"> </div> </div> </div> <div class="swiper-slide"> <div class="wpcp-single-item"> <div class="wpcp-slide-image"> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="skip-lazy" src="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/4-1-768x768.png" alt="4" width="640" height="640"> </div> </div> </div> <div class="swiper-slide"> <div class="wpcp-single-item"> <div class="wpcp-slide-image"> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="skip-lazy" src="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/5-1-768x768.png" alt="5" width="640" height="640"> </div> </div> </div> <div class="swiper-slide"> <div class="wpcp-single-item"> <div class="wpcp-slide-image"> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="skip-lazy" src="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/6-1-768x768.png" alt="6" width="640" height="640"> </div> </div> </div> <div class="swiper-slide"> <div class="wpcp-single-item"> <div class="wpcp-slide-image"> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="skip-lazy" src="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/Responsible-Practices-2-768x768.png" alt="Responsible Practices (2)" width="640" height="640"> </div> </div> </div> <div class="swiper-slide"> <div class="wpcp-single-item"> <div class="wpcp-slide-image"> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="skip-lazy" src="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/8-768x768.png" alt="8" width="640" height="640"> </div> </div> </div> <div class="swiper-slide"> <div class="wpcp-single-item"> <div class="wpcp-slide-image"> <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="skip-lazy" src="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/04/9-768x768.png" alt="9" width="640" height="640"> </div> </div> </div> </div> <div class="wpcp-swiper-dots swiper-pagination"></div> <!-- If we need navigation buttons --> <div class="wpcp-prev-button swiper-button-prev"><i class="fa fa-angle-left"></i></div> <div class="wpcp-next-button swiper-button-next"><i class="fa fa-angle-right"></i></div> </div> </div> </div> <p> </p> <p>Want to learn more about your favorite farmers’ practices? Check out the <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producers">producer page</a> on our online storefront for more information about our farmer partners or read our <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/farm-features/">farmer features.</a></p> <p> </p> <p>The post <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/sustainable-farming-practices/">Sustainable Farming Practices Explained</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org">Field to Family </a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://fieldtofamily.org/sustainable-farming-practices/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Community Supported Agriculture F.A.Q.</title> <link>https://fieldtofamily.org/csa-faq/</link> <comments>https://fieldtofamily.org/csa-faq/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Julia Poska]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 13 Jan 2021 19:11:46 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[dig in]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Info]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category> <category><![CDATA[CSA]]></category> <category><![CDATA[csa guide]]></category> <category><![CDATA[FAQ]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://fieldtofamily.org/?p=3453</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) is a growing model of direct-marketing for farmers growing diversified crops. As a consumer/fan of local food, however, you might have some questions about getting involved. Learn more about Community Supported Agriculture below, and be sure to check out Field to Family’s CSA Guide to explore CSA options in Iowa City, Cedar [...]</p> <p><a class="btn btn-secondary understrap-read-more-link" href="https://fieldtofamily.org/csa-faq/">Read More...</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/csa-faq/">Community Supported Agriculture F.A.Q.</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org">Field to Family </a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h1 style="text-align: left;"></h1> <h3><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignleft wp-image-2729 " src="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/IMG_0959-1024x683.jpg" alt="Summer vegetable assortment" width="499" height="333" /></h3> <p>Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) is a growing model of direct-marketing for farmers growing diversified crops. As a consumer/fan of local food, however, you might have some questions about getting involved. Learn more about Community Supported Agriculture below, and be sure to check out Field to Family’s CSA Guide to explore CSA options in Iowa City, Cedar Rapids and surrounding areas.</p> <h3>What is Community Supported Agriculture, or CSA?</h3> <p>In the farming community, CSA stands for “Community Supported Agriculture.” In this model, customers make an upfront investment in a farm at the start of the season and receive a weekly share of the farm’s harvest in exchange.</p> <h3>How does the CSA model benefit farmers and customers?</h3> <p>CSA farmers benefit from the upfront capital they receive from members at the start of the season. These funds help them pay for seeds, compost, labor, rent and all their other expenses. The farmers know they have a reliable market for the food they’ve grown.</p> <p>While there are many great reasons to purchase and consume local foods in general, joining a CSA has several additional benefits. CSA members can create personal connections with their farmers, see where their food is grown and become more active participants in their local food system. The nature of the weekly share means a CSA member’s diet will be full of seasonal variety and nutritious produce.</p> <h3>How long does a CSA “subscription” last?</h3> <p>CSAs are offered during every season of the year, though summer is by far the most popular, with fall not too far behind. Each farm sets its own CSA duration. That being said, a 16-week share from June through September is very common.</p> <h3>What does a CSA typically cost?</h3> <p>Joining a CSA requires an upfront investment of several hundred dollars. For a typical 16-week summer share in the Iowa City/Cedar Rapids area, this will often be $400-$500, or approximately $25-$30/week. Every farm sets its own price, however, so be sure to consult individual farm websites.</p> <p>Some farms offer small or half-size shares for individuals or small families that cost less than their full-sized shares.</p> <h3>I’m interested in joining a CSA, but it is out of my budget. Are there any options to help low-income households access CSA subscriptions?</h3> <p>Because CSAs require a large upfront payment, they can be inaccessible to large segments of the community. Many of our farmers care deeply about food access and food justice, however, and provide options to help low-income community members join.</p> <ul> <li>Most farms provide low-cost shares to low-income members</li> <li>Some farms offer work-share options, in which a member can work on the farm a few hours a week to receive a reduced-cost CSA share</li> <li>Visiting a weekly farmstand or pop-up farm sale can allow you to create a connection with you food/farmer while making a la carte purchases to meet your budget</li> <li>The <a href="https://www.coralvillefoodpantry.org/veggierx">Veggie RX</a> program, funded by MidwestOne Bank, provides free CSA shares from local farms to customers at several local food pantries.</li> </ul> <h3>What does a CSA in Iowa typically contain?</h3> <p>Iowa CSA shares are vegetable-heavy as a whole, though some seasonal fruit like melon or berries might be included. One notable exception is Buffalo Ridge Orchard, which offers an apple CSA in addition to vegetable shares. There are also flower CSAs in Iowa, which are not included in our CSA Guide at this time.</p> <p>CSA farmers often team up with other farmers or local food producers to offer “add-ons” to their shares. Some farms might offer the option to add eggs, bread, beer, flowers or other local products to a CSA membership.</p> <h3>How will I use all that produce?</h3> <p>By eating with the seasons, trying new things and getting creative in the kitchen! Many farmers include recipes with their CSA shares or in weekly newsletter emails to members, which can provide additional ideas and support.</p> <p>If your chosen farm does not offer a half- or small-size share but a full-size is too much, you might also consider splitting the share and cost with a friend or neighbor.</p> <h3>How do I join a CSA?</h3> <p>Each farm has a different sign-up process. Visiting a farm’s website will typically provide you with up-to-date information about CSA availability, as well as how to reserve a share.</p> <h3>How early should I sign up?</h3> <p>Farmers typically open up enrollment for the season annual in March. Watch for those announcements and sign up as soon as possible. Farms only have limited amount of shares available each season.</p> <p>That being said, not every farm is on the same timeline. Explore our CSA Guide to learn more about CSA availability in the area.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/csa-faq/">Community Supported Agriculture F.A.Q.</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org">Field to Family </a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://fieldtofamily.org/csa-faq/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Gifting Local Food with the Online Farmers Market</title> <link>https://fieldtofamily.org/gift-guide/</link> <comments>https://fieldtofamily.org/gift-guide/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Julia Poska]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Fri, 20 Nov 2020 21:55:11 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[dig in]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Info]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category> <category><![CDATA[christmas]]></category> <category><![CDATA[dessert]]></category> <category><![CDATA[frozen]]></category> <category><![CDATA[gift]]></category> <category><![CDATA[giving]]></category> <category><![CDATA[hannukah]]></category> <category><![CDATA[holiday]]></category> <category><![CDATA[hot sauce]]></category> <category><![CDATA[local food]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Online Farmers Market]]></category> <category><![CDATA[presents]]></category> <category><![CDATA[shelf stable]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://fieldtofamily.org/?p=2998</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>If you’ve been enjoying the Online Farmers Market yourself, why not share the joy of local food and farm products with your loved ones this holiday season? From stocking stuffers to gift sets and everything in between, our vendors have a wide variety of gift-ready products available for sale. We encourage you to use this [...]</p> <p><a class="btn btn-secondary understrap-read-more-link" href="https://fieldtofamily.org/gift-guide/">Read More...</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/gift-guide/">Gifting Local Food with the Online Farmers Market</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org">Field to Family </a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p style="text-align: center;">If you’ve been enjoying the Online Farmers Market yourself, why not share the joy of local food and farm products with your loved ones this holiday season? From stocking stuffers to gift sets and everything in between, our vendors have a wide variety of gift-ready products available for sale.</p> <p style="text-align: center;">We encourage you to use this guide for planning and to explore our <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producers">Meet Your Producer Page</a> and explore the full list of products for sale through the Online Farmers Market before finalizing your shopping list! We hope to update this guide as we get more information, but the final mix of products available on a given week is typically not set in stone until just before carts open on Tuesday afternoon.</p> <h3 style="text-align: center;">For the Home Chef</h3> <p style="text-align: center;"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="aligncenter wp-image-3027 size-full" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 10 px;" src="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/1-2.png" alt="" width="300" height="150" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;">The culinary geniuses in your life will be able to enjoy farm-fresh flavor year-round thanks to some of our creative vendors, who have found ways to preserve and package locally grown herbs and produce into delicious seasonings, oils and vinegars.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/7a76051c-1467-4da6-9077-49b809549db1">Olson Garden Market</a> is a popular produce vendor with its own line of “Big O’s” seasonings, made from garlic, herbs and veggies grown right on the farm. The farmers sell individual shakers and grinders of products like rib rub, garlic salt, everything but the bagel seasoning, parsley salts and veggie pepper, as well as pre-packaged gift sets containing some of their most popular products.</p> <p style="text-align: center;">The “farmer-entrepreneurs” at<a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/f5df45ff-2b16-4abf-bcd5-6e045ae51523"> Pickle Creek Herbs</a> grow herbs, garlic, tomatoes, peppers and berries on their small, certified organic farm and bottle up those delicious flavors into herb-infused olive oils, vinegars and other value-added products. They attribute the incredible flavor of their products to their original recipes, passion for their plants, and background in chemistry, which helps them get the soil conditions just right. Check out the wide variety of culinary products these farmers offer, including individual bottles of oil and vinegar in multiple sizes, pre-packaged gift sets, and dried herbs.</p> <h3 style="text-align: center;">For the Spice Master</h3> <p style="text-align: center;"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3022 size-full" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 10 px;" src="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/2-2.png" alt="" width="300" height="150" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;">If you know someone who loves to test the limits of their taste buds by experimenting with crazy-hot pepper varieties to see how much capsaicin they can handle, have we got the gifts for you….</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/c62e887a-86ce-4c3e-bc19-bf12e936884e">Ansel’s Awesome Sauce</a> is “hand-crafted in small batches with the roots and fruits of Iowa,” bottling ingredients from our local growers into delicious, hand-crafted hot sauces. Ansel’s line includes products ranging from “mild” to “Double-X,” with smoky and original varieties. Pick some to suit your loved one’s palate!</p> <p style="text-align: center;">In addition to their line of spices and rubs, <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/7a76051c-1467-4da6-9077-49b809549db1">Olson Garden Market</a> has several kinds of dried peppers for sale! Though hot pepper season ended in Iowa weeks ago, these dehydrated peppers pack all the heat of fresh, local capsicums to be enjoyed all winter long.</p> <h3 style="text-align: center;">For the Sweet Tooth</h3> <p style="text-align: center;"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3023 size-full" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 10 px;" src="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/3.png" alt="" width="300" height="150" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Almost everyone loves a sweet treat!</p> <p style="text-align: center;">Depending on your giving timeline and ability to keep things fresh and/or cold, you might consider gifting baked goods from <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/2e8d9cfe-c06f-4d12-9822-26da19c8c67c">HIM Hearth N Home Cooking</a>, French pastries from <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/ada19cb9-aeb6-4ec4-83a4-245bb3c0819a">Valerie’s French Cooking</a> (macarons keep well in the freezer!) or frozen yogurt from <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/72523834-ae7f-471e-baea-cb45adadda61">Yotopia: Iowa City’s Original FroYo.</a></p> <p style="text-align: center;">For a long-lasting sweet treat, check out <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/f49a0776-9201-4367-8b14-ab7c7e9aaace">Skyline Farm’s</a> huge variety of jams, jellies and preserves, available in 1.5 oz (perfect stocking stuffers!) and full-size 8 oz jars. Skyline grows the majority of produce used in their products on their own farm.</p> <h3 style="text-align: center;">For the Caffeine Addict</h3> <p style="text-align: center;"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3024 size-full" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 10 px;" src="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/4.png" alt="" width="300" height="150" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Though coffee certainly doesn’t grow in Iowa, our two Online Farmers Market coffee vendors bring a special local touch to their grounds. The coffee-lovers in your life will appreciate a cup of high-quality grounds unlike what they may be able to find in their local grocery stores and cafes.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/8952fd5d-dbde-4412-9ecb-4d5185661b14">Cafe Del Sol Roasting</a> purchases responsibly-sourced organic beans through a reputable importer that travels to the point of origin and develops long-term relationships with farmers and co-ops. The fluid bed air-roaster they use produces clean-tasting coffee, without a harsh edge. Check out their selection of grounds from all over the world!</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/8750610a-0535-4f08-99d3-00b6a56f08e0">Wake Up Iowa Coffee</a> offers organically grown, thoughtfully selected roasts, bagged and bottled in some of the funkiest packaging you’ve ever seen. Check out their selection of grounds, as well as their locally-famous <a href="https://www.cobraverde.org/">“Cobra Verde”</a> drinks, a citrusy, high-caffeine energy drink derived from Fair Trade green coffee beans.</p> <h3 style="text-align: center;">For the Health Conscious</h3> <p style="text-align: center;"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3025 size-full" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 10 px;" src="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/5.png" alt="" width="300" height="150" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;">While fresh produce might not make the best gift (although… why not?), some of our creative vendors have found ways to preserve locally grown goodies at peak-nutrition into gift-worthy local food products.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/8a22f405-1afe-4d29-aa91-24608d1c0118">Hue Hill</a> crafts local veggies into “vibrant, live-cultured, powerfully probiotic fermented foods.” The farm’s line of pickled products includes things like krauts, curtido, brines and kim chi. These products are flavorful, nutritious and great for the gut!</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/99710d42-ac01-4263-bc6a-410d52397cd4">Buffalo Ridge Orchard’s</a> naturally sweet dried apple chips are a healthy snack available as single bags and in 10-bag cases! These chips pack all the flavor of the orchard’s immensely popular apples into a healthy, shelf-stable snack.</p> <h4 style="text-align: center;">For the Self-Care Guru</h4> <p style="text-align: center;"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignnone wp-image-3026 size-full" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; margin-top: 10 px;" src="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/6.png" alt="" width="300" height="150" /></p> <p style="text-align: center;">Anyone who loves to feel pampered can appreciate the value of high-quality local bath and body products. Several of our vendors sell spa-day worthy products made with ingredients from local farms.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/4fc0d8c5-652f-41fe-9077-9504cd9613e5">Alpaca Fiber Arts LLC</a> sells a wide range of giftable products, including goat’s milk lotion, body butter and soap in a wide variety of fragrances. According to the vendor, goat’s milk is great for moisturizing and exfoliating! Alpaca Fiber Arts also sells hand-crafted apparel, rugs, stuffed toys, dryer balls and decorative items made from alpaca fiber to help your loved ones feel warm and cozy this holiday season.</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/dbc56452-7a3a-4349-903a-43553967098e">Rare Bird Soap Shop</a> makes soaps, lotions, sprays, balms and salves, using local, sustainable and organic ingredients whenever possible. The vendor makes all her products on her Kalona farm.</p> <p style="text-align: center;">In addition to flavorful oil and vinegars, <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/f5df45ff-2b16-4abf-bcd5-6e045ae51523">Pickle Creek Herbs</a> uses their harvest to create herbal soaps, salves and lip balms. We think they smell just as good as the vendor’s culinary products taste!</p> <h4 style="text-align: center;">Tips for Gifting Frozen/Cold Items</h4> <p style="text-align: center;">Some of our most delicious offerings come pre-frozen, such as high-quality meats from <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/6251f849-9017-49dc-9238-eab987f23a84">Rapid Creek Ranch</a> and <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/de4c4e41-56bd-4061-a8e9-4d11b4b24dcd">Rehberg’s Pork</a>, sweet treats from <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/72523834-ae7f-471e-baea-cb45adadda61">Yotopia</a> or burritos from <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/4c1fe989-9917-4fd2-b6ab-38002e0e6aee">Local Burrito</a> (which Chef Kyle Sieck points out make excellent stocking stuffers!).</p> <p style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://www.fsis.usda.gov/wps/portal/fsis/topics/food-safety-education/get-answers/food-safety-fact-sheets/safe-food-handling/the-big-thaw-safe-defrosting-methods-for-consumers/CT_Index#:~:text=However%2C%20as%20soon%20as%20they,for%20more%20than%20two%20hours.">The U.S. Department of Agriculture</a> advises that frozen meat shouldn’t sit out for more than two hours, as meat that reaches temperatures of 40 degrees Fahrenheit or higher can begin growing harmful bacteria. Consider whether you or your guests must drive less than two hours with the product out of the freezer. If so, can you keep them in the host’s freezer until you are ready to present the gift, and then put them back in the freezer or refrigerator immediately after opening? Another option is to wrap up a printed paper with a description of the products and present that, with the actual products stored safely away the whole while.</p> <p style="text-align: center;">Local Burrito’s products are pre-cooked and then frozen, so they are able to stay out of the freezer slightly longer than raw meats. The vendor advises that his products can stay out of the freezer for up to four hours.</p> <p><a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/a11defea-df52-4725-b3c0-0a79a5496178">WW Homstead Dairy’s</a> popular flavored cheese curds can be an excellent edible gift as well. The U.S.D.A. advises that cheddar cheese can be considered safe it it reaches temperatures above 40 degrees Fahrenheit for up to two hours, but we encourage you to try to minimize time spent sitting out as much as possible.</p> <p> </p> <p style="text-align: center;"> <p>The post <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/gift-guide/">Gifting Local Food with the Online Farmers Market</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org">Field to Family </a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://fieldtofamily.org/gift-guide/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Tips for Keeping Local on the Table All Winter Long</title> <link>https://fieldtofamily.org/stocking-up/</link> <comments>https://fieldtofamily.org/stocking-up/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Julia Poska]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 17 Nov 2020 16:30:37 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[dig in]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Info]]></category> <category><![CDATA[burritos]]></category> <category><![CDATA[dairy]]></category> <category><![CDATA[eggs]]></category> <category><![CDATA[freezing]]></category> <category><![CDATA[frozen yogurt]]></category> <category><![CDATA[herbs]]></category> <category><![CDATA[honey]]></category> <category><![CDATA[jam]]></category> <category><![CDATA[jelly]]></category> <category><![CDATA[juice]]></category> <category><![CDATA[meat]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Online Farmers Market]]></category> <category><![CDATA[preserving]]></category> <category><![CDATA[sauce]]></category> <category><![CDATA[squash]]></category> <category><![CDATA[storing]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vegetables]]></category> <category><![CDATA[winter]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://fieldtofamily.org/?p=2973</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Winter is coming; it’s time to stock up. There may be only a few Online Farmers Markets left, but you can keep local food on the table all winter long if you start preparing now. Check out our tips below, and remember that spending more now not only gives our vendors a late-season boost, but [...]</p> <p><a class="btn btn-secondary understrap-read-more-link" href="https://fieldtofamily.org/stocking-up/">Read More...</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/stocking-up/">Tips for Keeping Local on the Table All Winter Long</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org">Field to Family </a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-2977 aligncenter" src="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/50479441428_98701a862c_b.jpg" alt="" width="732" height="488" srcset="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/50479441428_98701a862c_b.jpg 1024w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/50479441428_98701a862c_b-300x200.jpg 300w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/50479441428_98701a862c_b-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 732px) 100vw, 732px" /></p> <p>Winter is coming; it’s time to stock up.</p> <p>There may be only a few <a href="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/online-farmers-market/">Online Farmers Markets</a> left, but you can keep local food on the table all winter long if you start preparing now. Check out our tips below, and remember that spending more now not only gives our vendors a late-season boost, but means you’ll have fewer trips to the store and better-tasting food in the cold months ahead.</p> <p><strong>1. Stock up on frozen items </strong></p> <p>If you’ve been loving local meat and frozen yogurt all season long, consider whether you have enough freezer space to buy a few months’ worth before the market ends. We recommend getting enough for your household to have a local meat/burrito entrée or frozen yogurt desert one to two times per week for three months.</p> <p>Check out <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/de4c4e41-56bd-4061-a8e9-4d11b4b24dcd">Rehberg’s Pork</a>, <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/6251f849-9017-49dc-9238-eab987f23a84">Rapid Creek Ranch</a>, <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/30d30b61-5d51-4355-b4c8-4d5999d964c9">Twisted Oaks Meats</a> and <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/72523834-ae7f-471e-baea-cb45adadda61">Yotopia</a> for the best frozen options.</p> <p><strong>2. Preserve, preserve, preserve! <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-2978 alignright" src="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/6827929724_0778e75291_b.jpg" alt="" width="353" height="265" srcset="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/6827929724_0778e75291_b.jpg 1024w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/6827929724_0778e75291_b-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/6827929724_0778e75291_b-768x576.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 353px) 100vw, 353px" /></strong></p> <p>Just because your food doesn’t come to you dried or frozen doesn’t mean you can’t preserve it yourself. Most veggies will need to be blanched before freezing (with the exception of onions), but once frozen will last for up to a year. <a href="https://www.mosaicfoods.com/blogs/main/the-ultimate-guide-to-freezing-vegetables">Check out this guide from Mosaic</a> on freezing produce (or do some research on freezing your favorite fall veggie) and pick at least one item to in buy bulk and freeze.</p> <p>We recommend carrots, broccoli, cabbage, chard, kale or basil for produce starters. Remember that many non-produce items also freeze beautifully, including <a href="https://www.juicebuff.com/can-you-freeze-fresh-juice/">juice</a>,<a href="https://www.ag.ndsu.edu/publications/food-nutrition/food-freezing-basics-freezing-dairy-products-eggs-and-other-foods"> milk, butter, cheese and eggs!</a> Perhaps even more exciting: local deserts like cookies, macarons and breads will keep wonderfully in the freezer as well!</p> <p>Plan ahead and spend an afternoon prepping fresh food for the freezer this weekend; you’ll thank yourself later when you’re enjoying local products at peak nutrition in the cold of February.</p> <p><strong>3. Shop for storage produce</strong></p> <p>A lot of fall produce will last longer than you think. <a href="https://www.thespruceeats.com/how-to-store-apples-for-winter-1389143">Apples</a>, for example, will often stay fresh and beautiful in the refrigerator for at least eight weeks. <a href="https://www.thespruceeats.com/how-to-store-potatoes-1389145#:~:text=If%20you%20know%20how%20to,six%20months%20when%20properly%20stored.">Potatoes</a> can last up to six months, winter squash up to four, and<a href="http://postharvest.ucdavis.edu/files/251548.pdf"> garlic</a> three to five. If you have a cool, dry, well ventilated space in your home, consider doing a little research and stocking up on storage-friendly fall crops today to enjoy for months to come.</p> <p><strong><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-2975 alignleft" src="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/6455921311_8612acd557_b.jpg" alt="" width="363" height="242" srcset="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/6455921311_8612acd557_b.jpg 1024w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/6455921311_8612acd557_b-300x200.jpg 300w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/11/6455921311_8612acd557_b-768x512.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 363px) 100vw, 363px" />4. Fill your pantry with local flavor </strong></p> <p>Don’t forget about the sauces, preserves and seasonings that make food taste so good. In the bleak of winter, a spread of local jam, a dash of fiery hot sauce, a drizzle of sweet honey or a sprinkle of farm-fresh garlic salt can make all the difference.</p> <p>Make sure to check out vendors like <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/c62e887a-86ce-4c3e-bc19-bf12e936884e">Ansel’s Awesome Sauce</a> (hot sauce), <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/f5df45ff-2b16-4abf-bcd5-6e045ae51523">Pickle Creek Herbs</a> (oils and vinegars), <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/8a22f405-1afe-4d29-aa91-24608d1c0118">Hue Hill</a> (fermented goodies), <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/8952fd5d-dbde-4412-9ecb-4d5185661b14">Cafe del Sol Roasting</a> (coffee) and <a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/Producer/8750610a-0535-4f08-99d3-00b6a56f08e0">Wake Up Iowa City</a> (coffee) for shelf-stable goodies to keep your taste buds satisfied all winter long.</p> <p>The post <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/stocking-up/">Tips for Keeping Local on the Table All Winter Long</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org">Field to Family </a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://fieldtofamily.org/stocking-up/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Late-Season Online Market Vendor F.A.Q.</title> <link>https://fieldtofamily.org/late-season-vendor-faq/</link> <comments>https://fieldtofamily.org/late-season-vendor-faq/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Julia Poska]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Thu, 05 Nov 2020 21:11:57 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[hub]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Info]]></category> <category><![CDATA[FAQ]]></category> <category><![CDATA[farmer]]></category> <category><![CDATA[late-season]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Online Farmers Market]]></category> <category><![CDATA[producer]]></category> <category><![CDATA[vendor]]></category> <category><![CDATA[winter]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://fieldtofamily.org/?p=2930</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Here are some FAQs for current or potential vendors interested in participating in the 5-week, late-season, contact-free Online Farmers Market, a new endeavor of the Field to Family Food Hub.   What kind of producers can participate in the Online Farmers Market? Vendors who participated in the Iowa City Online Market 2020 and food hub [...]</p> <p><a class="btn btn-secondary understrap-read-more-link" href="https://fieldtofamily.org/late-season-vendor-faq/">Read More...</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/late-season-vendor-faq/">Late-Season Online Market Vendor F.A.Q.</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org">Field to Family </a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Here are some FAQs for current or potential vendors interested in participating in the 5-week, late-season, contact-free Online Farmers Market, a new endeavor of the Field to Family Food Hub. </span></p> <p> </p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">What kind of producers can participate in the Online Farmers Market? </span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Vendors who participated in the Iowa City Online Market 2020 and food hub vendors. We may be able to accept new vendors based on logistics and producer agreements. </span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">What kind of requirements will there be for Vendors: </span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Vendors must sign our </span><a href="https://docs.google.com/document/d/1lq6JonWBoaw2Q2dNql1epU54W6jNwobBFC6yRJaGqSc/edit"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Producer Agreement </span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;">and be willing to work with our drop times. </span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">What products can be offered on the online Farmers Market? </span></h2> <ol> <li style="list-style-type: none;"> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Fresh or dried fruits, vegetables, starter plants, honey, eggs, meat, dairy and mushrooms. </span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">We are also offering opportunities for some value-added producers. Items include:</span> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Frozen prepared foods with locally-sourced ingredients (i.e. burritos, kraut, froyo, juice) </span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Locally roasted packaged coffee beans</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Infused oils with locally-sourced ingredients</span></li> </ul> </li> <li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Food Hub Farmers and Full time seasonal Iowa City Farmers Market vendors only can offer baked goods on the online site. We encourage all baked items to have at least one locally-sourced ingredient.</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;"><b>Baked goods </b><span style="font-weight: 400;">cannot exceed 30% of the total products offered through the online market</span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Please inquire for more details if you are a vendor with products not listed above.</span></li> </ul> </li> </ol> <p> </p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">What products will not be offered in the online market at this time? </span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">No ready-to-serve hot foods. </span><span style="font-weight: 400;">No reselling from another farm, unless explicitly approved by market managers. </span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">What food safety requirements are required?</span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Vendors must meet all safety and health requirements required by federal, state and county health departments. </span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">What would a week in the hub look like for a vendor? </span></h2> <ol> <li style="list-style-type: none;"> <ul> <li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Saturday at 5:00pm to Tuesday by 10:00 am: Upload product to online system </span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Monday: Sign up for a time to drop off products by emailing </span><a href="mailto:ben@fieldtofamily.org"><span style="font-weight: 400;">ben@fieldtofamily.org</span></a><span style="font-weight: 400;"> </span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Wednesday at 2:00 pm: Receive orders via email </span></li> <li style="font-weight: 400;"><span style="font-weight: 400;">Thursday from 2:00-5:00pm or Friday from 9:00am-11:00am: Deliver to Hub at 840 S Capitol St. in Iowa City at time selected through communications above. </span></li> </ul> </li> </ol> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">What are expectations for packaging orders? </span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Items must be packaged in new, food grade containers and sorted by unit listed in the online marketplace </span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">How do products need to be labeled? </span></h2> <ul> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Labels are required for every case delivered to the hub for food safety with at least four things: </span> <ul> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Farm Name, Product Name, Quantity and Date</span></li> </ul> </li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;">Labeling requirements vary for different types of products. Please attend training to learn more. </span></li> </ul> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Is there a limit on how many products a vendor can offer to the marketplace? </span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">No, there are no limits. </span></p> <ol> <li style="list-style-type: none;"> <ol> <li style="list-style-type: none;"></li> </ol> </li> </ol> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Can vendor products be refused? </span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Product may be refused if it does not meet acceptable quality standards, or is not salable.</span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Is there an order minimum for customers? </span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Yes, $15.00.</span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Are customers charged a margin or fee on their orders? </span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Customers are currently charged a $4 service fee. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Field to Family will add a 25% markup to farmer prices in order to cover our operating costs and staff time. </span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">How should vendors price products? </span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Vendors price their own products in the online software Local Food Marketplace. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Field to Family asks vendors to follow guidelines in the Iowa City Farmers Market Guide which encourages fair pricing. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">“Vendors are discouraged from giving produce or other items away for free or at below-cost pricing, thus undercutting and affecting the potential sales of other vendors.” </span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">How are vendors paid? </span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Vendors will be required to share billing information during orientation and Field to Family will pay by check within 30 days. </span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">Is there a fee for vendors to participate? </span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Field to Family Food Hub Farmers and part-time vendors will be charged $16 per week to participate unless they do not sell at least $100 in goods.</span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">What extra safety precautions are required for COVID-19?</span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Farmers will need to sign up for drop off time to the warehouse and wear masks and gloves when they drop produce. </span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">How do customers order?</span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Customers can register at any time on orders.fieldtofamily.org </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Customers can order once the cart opens at noon on the Tuesdays prior to a Saturday market. </span></p> <h2><span style="font-weight: 400;">How will Field to Family promote my farm and my farm products? </span></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Field to Family will put out multiple promotional materials to promote the market and the vendors included in the market. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Interested community members will sign up in the online software and will receive promotional emails, notices when the cart opens and when it closes.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We are looking for other ways to promote your farm and your products offered on the online market. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Customers will receive promotions, food system education handouts and other materials. </span></p> <p> </p> <p>The post <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/late-season-vendor-faq/">Late-Season Online Market Vendor F.A.Q.</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org">Field to Family </a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://fieldtofamily.org/late-season-vendor-faq/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Late-Season Market FAQ</title> <link>https://fieldtofamily.org/late-season-faq/</link> <comments>https://fieldtofamily.org/late-season-faq/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Julia Poska]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 28 Oct 2020 21:10:33 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Info]]></category> <category><![CDATA[extended market]]></category> <category><![CDATA[FAQ]]></category> <category><![CDATA[late-season]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Online Farmers Market]]></category> <category><![CDATA[ordering]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://fieldtofamily.org/?p=2905</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>Frequently Asked Questions The late-season extension of the Online Farmers Market will look somewhat different than the regular season operation. To see what’s the same and what has changed, check out these FAQ’s. Read below to learn the answers to some frequently asked questions. Don’t see your question? Contact us at info@fieldtofamily.org . When can [...]</p> <p><a class="btn btn-secondary understrap-read-more-link" href="https://fieldtofamily.org/late-season-faq/">Read More...</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/late-season-faq/">Late-Season Market FAQ</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org">Field to Family </a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<h2><a href="http://fieldtofamily.org/online-farmers-market"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="alignright wp-image-2906" src="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/F2F_Online_Market_logo-4.png" alt="" width="311" height="313" srcset="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/F2F_Online_Market_logo-4.png 487w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/F2F_Online_Market_logo-4-297x300.png 297w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/F2F_Online_Market_logo-4-150x150.png 150w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 311px) 100vw, 311px" /></a></h2> <h2><strong>Frequently Asked Questions</strong></h2> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The late-season extension of the Online Farmers Market will look somewhat different than the regular season operation. To see what’s the same and what has changed, check out these FAQ’s. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Read below to learn the answers to some frequently asked questions. Don’t see your question? Contact us at info@fieldtofamily.org . </span></p> <h3><b>When can I place my order?</b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Orders can only be placed when the customer cart is open. Carts will still open weekly at noon the Tuesday prior to Saturday pick-up. Registered customers will get a reminder email soon before carts open.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Before confirming an order, customers need to select one of our available pick-up windows. Windows close immediately after they become full.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Ordering closes when capacity of all windows is reached, or at noon on Wednesday. </span></p> <h3><b>How will I pick up my order?</b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The pick-up location for Online Farmers Market orders has changed. The contact-free drive-thru will now be located in the back parking lot of the Field to Family Food Hub warehouse, 840 S Capitol St. in Iowa City. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">You will enter the back parking lot from Benton St. and exit on Capitol St. We will put up signage to help direct traffic. Check out the image below for further guidance. </span></p> <p><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-2910 aligncenter" src="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Winter-Market-Map.png" alt="" width="414" height="465" srcset="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Winter-Market-Map.png 644w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/10/Winter-Market-Map-267x300.png 267w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 414px) 100vw, 414px" /></p> <h3><b>Why have certain aspects of the late-season online market changed from the regular season? </b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The regular season Online Farmers Market was a partnership between Field to Family and the Iowa City Farmers Market to maintain access to local foods and farmers for the duration of the regular market season. The regular season ended October 31, and these late-season markets are independent ventures of Field to Family. </span></p> <h3><b>Why are prices on some items different than from the regular season? </b></h3> <p>Since the extended market is an independent venture of the Field to Family Food Hub (no longer a partnership with the city government) our operational costs for these five weeks have increased, while much of the financial support we previously received for this new program is no longer there. We have always added a markup on all of our wholesale Food Hub orders and made the decision to do so for the Online Farmers Market orders as well to make this endeavor sustainable for our nonprofit, similar to what grocery stores do. Yes, the numbers are a bit unusual, but we hope our customers don’t mind.</p> <h3><b>How many customers can shop each week?</b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We anticipate being able to serve about 200 to 250 customers/week. During the peak of the regular season, we served about 450 customers/week. This means we may reach capacity early and close the order period before noon Wednesday. </span></p> <h3><b>Have the order minimum and service fee changed?</b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">No. The minimum order amount ($15) and service fee ($4) will remain the same as during the regular season in order to support the costs of running the operation. </span></p> <h3><b>Can EBT/SNAP/WIC/FMNP customers participate in the late-season markets?</b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In short, not yet. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">During the regular season, the City of Iowa City Parks and Recreation Department handled all EBT/SNAP/WIC/FMNP transactions. Unfortunately, at this time Field to Family does not have the required permissions, training and equipment to complete these transactions. We hope to be able to accept these forms of payment soon and will let customers know if and when this happens. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In the meantime, EBT/SNAP/WIC/FMNP customers may be interested in participating in our <a href="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/farm-stands-2/">Farm Stands</a> program through November. This program distributes free bags of fresh, local produce to Johnson County households experiencing food insecurity. <a href="https://forms.gle/nj8h6urfi6K9KKuY8">Sign up here. </a></span></p> <h3><b>Why can’t I add a certain product to my cart?</b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Products are available in limited quantities. As soon as an item is sold out, it should disappear from the online marketplace.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">In some cases, one shopper purchases an item at the same time another customer is attempting to add that item to their cart. In this case, the second shopper may be notified that the product is unavailable for purchase.</span></p> <h3><b>Why can’t I place my order?</b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">When you confirm your order, you may be directed to update your “location” to another window (one that is not full). If you are unable to select a new window, all order windows are full.</span></p> <h3><b>Why does my order status say “UNPAID”?</b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Field to Family processes payments on distribution day to make sure all payments accurately reflect items received. Until that point, orders are designated as “UNPAID” in the online marketplace.</span></p> <h3><b>Can I return the tote bag I receive with my order for reuse? </b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Representatives from Johnson County Public Health have said we can encourage reuse of bags! To ensure everyone’s safety we will be holding bags for a 7 day period to maintain a healthy environment.</span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Here is how you can return your clean, free-from-damage totes and paper bags for reuse:</span></p> <ol> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;"> Bring back any clean reusable tote bag to 840 S Capitol St. on Fridays between 8am-5pm (please wear a mask). </span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;"> When you pick up your order on Saturdays, place the totes where you want your order to go in your vehicle.</span></li> <li><span style="font-weight: 400;"> If you bike to pick up your order, we will have a box ready for your totes.</span></li> </ol> <h3><b>Can I bike or walk to pick up my order? </b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">We support bikers and walkers! We plan to have a sign on site marking a designated waiting area for bikers and walkers. Please find this sign and a volunteer will assist you as soon as possible. If you must cut through the line of cars to reach the designated area, please exercise caution. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Please bring a face mask to wear if you need to come within 6-feet of a volunteer to communicate.</span></p> <h3><b>Do I have to pick up my order during my designated window?</b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you are able, please arrive during your designated pick-up window. If you arrive early, your order will likely be packed away somewhere inaccessible. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you are unable to pick up your order, contact us ASAP by calling or texting (319) 214-3509 or by email info@fieldtofamily.org. We are happy to be able to donate unclaimed items to Table to Table for redistribution to those in need. </span></p> <p><b>What should I do if an item is missing from my order?</b></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">Volunteers and staff work hard to ensure orders are filled correctly, but mistakes do happen. We first check inventory when producers drop off their products Thursday and Friday. We update customer invoices to reflect any missing items–you will not be charged for anything a producer does not deliver. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If you receive your order Saturday and notice an item is missing, contact us ASAP by calling or texting (319) 214-3509 or email us at info@fieldtofamily.org. It is likely we have the product in storage, and we will ask you to return to the Field to Family Food Hub before 12:45 PM to retrieve the item. We may be able to hold frozen items until the following Saturday. </span></p> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">If we cannot find the item or you are unable to return, we can issue a credit to your Online Farmers Market account. We donate unclaimed items to Table to Table to be distributed where needed most. </span></p> <h3><b>When will the late-season Online Farmers Market end?</b></h3> <p><span style="font-weight: 400;">The last final late-season market will be on Saturday, December 12. </span></p> <p> </p> <p>The post <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/late-season-faq/">Late-Season Market FAQ</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org">Field to Family </a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://fieldtofamily.org/late-season-faq/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Late-Season Online Market Coming in November/December</title> <link>https://fieldtofamily.org/late-season-market/</link> <comments>https://fieldtofamily.org/late-season-market/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Julia Poska]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Tue, 20 Oct 2020 16:33:55 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[Info]]></category> <category><![CDATA[update]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Online Farmers Market]]></category> <category><![CDATA[winter market]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://fieldtofamily.org/?p=2877</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>You can continue shopping local food and farm products this winter with Field to Family (register here)! We will be offering a scaled-down version of the Online Farmers Market the following dates/times at our own facility, located at 840 S. Capitol St. in Iowa City. Check out our new F.A.Q. page to learn more about [...]</p> <p><a class="btn btn-secondary understrap-read-more-link" href="https://fieldtofamily.org/late-season-market/">Read More...</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/late-season-market/">Late-Season Online Market Coming in November/December</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org">Field to Family </a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><a href="http://fieldtofamily.org/online-farmers-market"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-2051 alignright" src="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/F2F_Online_Market_logo.png" alt="" width="247" height="250" srcset="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/F2F_Online_Market_logo.png 487w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/F2F_Online_Market_logo-297x300.png 297w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 247px) 100vw, 247px" /></a>You can continue shopping local food and farm products this winter with Field to Family (<a href="https://orders.fieldtofamily.org/">register here</a>)! We will be offering a scaled-down version of the Online Farmers Market the following dates/times at our own facility, located at 840 S. Capitol St. in Iowa City. Check out our new <a href="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/late-season-faq/">F.A.Q. page</a> to learn more about what will and will not change with this new venture.</p> <ul> <li>Saturday, November 7</li> <li>Saturday, November 14</li> <li>Saturday, November 21</li> <li>Saturday, December 5</li> <li>Saturday, December 12</li> </ul> <p>Customers will still order Tuesday/Wednesday at orders.fieldtofamily.org, receive weekly reminder emails and pick up their order via a contact-free drive-thru. We anticipate that we will be able to serve about 200 customers/week.</p> <p>We expect to have local dairy, meat, storage crops such as squash, sweet, red, and other potatoes, onions, radishes and more! Many of Iowa’s farmers have found creative ways to extend the growing season, so we will also have fresh greens, kale and other late fall vegetables.</p> <p>The following vendors have indicated interest in participating in this late-season venture: All Seasons Harvest, Alpaca Fiber Arts LLC, Ansel’s Awesome Sauce, Buffalo Ridge Orchard, Garden Oasis, Get Fresh, HIM Hearth N Home Cooking, Local Burrito, Oak Hill Acres, Olson Garden Market, Organic Greens LLC, Pickle Creek Herbs, Rapid Creek Ranch, Rare Bird Soap Shop, Rehberg’s Pork, Rot’s Bounty LLC, Salt Fork Farms, Skyline Farm, Trowel & Error Farm, Urban Greens, Valerie’s French Cooking, Wasson Produce, Yotopia. More vendors may be added to this list soon.</p> <p><a href="https://forms.gle/k7fFoQADKEc1pAs59">Sign up to volunteer!</a></p> <p>Pick-Up instructions coming soon!</p> <p> </p> <p>The post <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/late-season-market/">Late-Season Online Market Coming in November/December</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org">Field to Family </a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://fieldtofamily.org/late-season-market/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> <item> <title>Guide to COVID Times Local Food Access</title> <link>https://fieldtofamily.org/covid-access/</link> <comments>https://fieldtofamily.org/covid-access/#respond</comments> <dc:creator><![CDATA[Julia Poska]]></dc:creator> <pubDate>Wed, 17 Jun 2020 21:56:29 +0000</pubDate> <category><![CDATA[blog]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Info]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Uncategorized]]></category> <category><![CDATA[access]]></category> <category><![CDATA[cedar rapids]]></category> <category><![CDATA[coralville]]></category> <category><![CDATA[coronavirus]]></category> <category><![CDATA[COVID-19]]></category> <category><![CDATA[CSA]]></category> <category><![CDATA[farmers market]]></category> <category><![CDATA[iowa city]]></category> <category><![CDATA[Iowa city Community school district]]></category> <category><![CDATA[local foods]]></category> <category><![CDATA[marion]]></category> <category><![CDATA[mount vernon]]></category> <category><![CDATA[online]]></category> <category><![CDATA[solon]]></category> <guid isPermaLink="false">https://fieldtofamily.org/?p=2067</guid> <description><![CDATA[<p>***Please note that this guide was created for the summer of 2020! While much of the information provided may still be relevant, much will be out of date.*** The 2020 coronavirus pandemic has made the importance of supporting your favorite small businesses clearer than ever before. It has reinforced the value of staying healthy, too. [...]</p> <p><a class="btn btn-secondary understrap-read-more-link" href="https://fieldtofamily.org/covid-access/">Read More...</a></p> <p>The post <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/covid-access/">Guide to COVID Times Local Food Access</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org">Field to Family </a>.</p> ]]></description> <content:encoded><![CDATA[<p><strong>***Please note that this guide was created for the summer of 2020! While much of the information provided may still be relevant, much will be out of date.***</strong></p> <p>The 2020 coronavirus pandemic has made the importance of supporting your favorite small businesses clearer than ever before. It has reinforced the value of staying healthy, too. It has also <a href="https://time.com/5820381/coronavirus-food-shortages-hunger/">revealed weaknesses</a> across the global food supply chain, interrupting international imports, infecting vulnerable <a href="https://www.vox.com/2020/5/19/21259000/meat-shortage-meatpacking-plants-coronavirus">meatpacking</a> and <a href="https://www.politico.com/news/2020/06/09/farm-workers-coronavirus-309897">farm workers</a> and leading to the<a href="https://www.nytimes.com/2020/04/11/business/coronavirus-destroying-food.html"> waste of millions of pounds of fresh food</a>. Put the three together, and you have a strong case for filling your plate (and your cup!) with local food products now and into the future.</p> <p>We sent a survey to local producers asking how customers can reach them and their products during this unusual growing season. Find information from those who responded below!</p> <h6>Are you a local producer who wants to be featured in this post? Is your local farmers market open and not featured here? Email julia@fieldtofamily.org.</h6> <h3><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-2078 alignright" src="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/CSA.jpg" alt="" width="358" height="240" srcset="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/CSA.jpg 1023w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/CSA-300x201.jpg 300w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/CSA-768x514.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 358px) 100vw, 358px" />Join a CSA</h3> <p><em>While many CSAs are full for the season, some are still accepting members for summer and fall. A CSA is essentially a subscription that gives buyers a portion of a farmer’s harvest each week. This list will continue to be updated as producers share information.</em></p> <p><strong>Buffalo Ridge Orchard: </strong>Sign up for shares for July and future months (including fall apples!) at <a href="http://buffaloridgeorchard.com/all-bro-products/online-farm-store/.">http://buffaloridgeorchard.com/all-bro-products/online-farm-store/. </a></p> <p><strong>Echollective CSA: </strong>Enroll for fall CSA at <a href="http://www.echollectivefarm.com/csa-sign-up/.">http://www.echollectivefarm.com/csa-sign-up/.</a></p> <p><strong>Morning Glory: </strong>Fall veggie share openings still available as of Sept. 9 2020. Enroll at <a href="https://www.morningglory.community/shop/csa-shares/.">https://www.morningglory.community/shop/csa-shares/. </a></p> <p><strong>Rainbow Roots Farm: </strong>Sign-up for fall CSA opens in July at <a href="https://www.rainbowrootsfarm.com/csa.">https://www.rainbowrootsfarm.com/csa.</a></p> <p> </p> <h3><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-1921 alignleft" src="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/urbangreens.jpg" alt="" width="309" height="232" srcset="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/urbangreens.jpg 960w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/urbangreens-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/urbangreens-768x576.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 309px) 100vw, 309px" /></h3> <h3 style="text-align: left;">Shop Directly from Vendors</h3> <p><em>Many local producers have their own online stores or sell direct-to-consumer through email and social media. A fun bonus– shoppers are often able to see exactly where their food is coming from by visiting the farm to pick up orders. This list will continue to be updated through the season. </em></p> <p><strong>Bass Family Farm: </strong>Order produce, meat, pantry items, ice cream and more through the <a href="https://app.barn2door.com/e/QAbA5/all">online store</a> for on-farm pickup or delivery. Not ready to commit to a CSA? Bass offers $20 “sacks” of produce on a week-by-week basis.</p> <p><strong>Bountiful Harvest CSA: </strong>Order produce and preserves online for drive-thru pickup in Solon, Iowa at <a href="https://bountifulharvestcsa.square.site/.">https://bountifulharvestcsa.square.site/. </a></p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Buffalo Ridge Orchard: </strong>Order plants, herbs, apple chips and gift cards online at <a href="http://www.BuffaloRidgeOrchard.com">www.BuffaloRidgeOrchard.com</a> for Saturday on-farm pickup in Central City, Iowa.</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Calico Farm: </strong>Order fresh produce online at <a href="http://Calicofarmstore.com">Calicofarmstore.com</a> for on-farm pickup in Iowa City. Interested customers can also place orders by calling 319-321-6904.</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Cultivate Hope Urban Farm: </strong><a href="https://cultivatehope.square.site/s/order#2">Order online</a> Wednesdays for Thursday pick-up 4-7 p.m. at 437 G Avenue NW, Cedar Rapids. Half-price produce for income qualified customers. <a href="https://www.hub25.org/food/market/">More here. </a></p> <p><strong>Dan and Debbie’s Creamery:</strong> <a href="https://dan-debbies-creamery.square.site/">Order dairy products online</a> for curbside pickup at the farm’s Ely, Iowa store.</p> <p><strong>Ebert’s Honey: </strong>Buy produced-in-Iowa honey and related products <a href="https://eberthoney.com/product-category/honey-pollen/">online. </a></p> <p><strong>Grimm Family Farm: </strong>Order a fresh chicken <a href="http://www.grimmfarm.com/farm-fresh-chicken-1">online</a>. Sold out until October!</p> <p><strong>Grinnell Heritage Farm:</strong><a href="https://grinnellheritagefarm.com/order-online/"> Order fresh veggies online weekly</a> (cart opens every Sunday), and consider tacking a wood oven-fired pizza on while you’re at it. Pick up on-farm in Grinnell, Iowa.</p> <p><strong>Hansen’s Dairy: </strong><a href="https://hansendairy.com/">Order dairy products online</a> for contact-free pick up in Waterloo or Cedar Falls or for delivery.</p> <p><strong>Iowa Delivery: </strong>People living in the Iowa City area can have locally brewed beer and liquor, as well as meals and desserts from local vendors, delivered to their homes. Order at <a href="http://iowadelivery.com">iowadelivery.com.</a></p> <p><strong>Miller Family Homestead: </strong><a href="https://joytobealive.wixsite.com/millerfamhomestead?fbclid=IwAR3_oBFAoRynoXmy-I67MWZz7i0efiGtAerL7O8YaqnZGqJo724QXqy0YQs">Order</a> the Miller family’s beef and beans plus other Iowa-grown goods from their friends and family for on-farm pickup in Riverside, Iowa or delivery within 30 miles.</p> <p><strong>Morning Glory Farm: </strong><a href="https://www.morningglory.community/?fbclid=IwAR1fh6dZX2TilvV3d-yd98M8_lk_vU-7zZ9SdpmK_-QeLweaYbgfGwaaVKc">Shop online</a> for veggie boxes, ready-to-eat salads and more at for on-farm pickup in Mt. Vernon.</p> <p><strong>Oak Hill Acres: </strong>Buy veggies and honey <a href="https://oakhillacres.com/">online</a> for pickup in Iowa City, Davenport or Atalissa.</p> <p><strong>Olson Garden Market:</strong> Buy fresh produce and spices <a href="https://www.stoutsmarket.com/pages/about-us">online</a> for pickup in Grinnell, Iowa or for delivery.</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Pavelka’s Point Meats: </strong>Follow on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Pavelkas-Point-Meats-1166767146768686/">Facebook</a> or contact loisbill@southslope.net to receive weekly meat information. Order for by-appointment on-farm pickup in Mount Vernon.</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>Rapid Creek Ranch: </strong>Order local meat and eggs <a href="https://squareup.com/store/shoprcr.">online</a> for on-farm pickup in Oxford, Iowa.</p> <p><strong>Red Earth Gardens:</strong> Order local produce<a href="https://app.barn2door.com/e/3Wq25/all"> online</a> for pick-up in the Sac And Fox/Meskwaki Settlement at the Meskwaki Business Center on Tuesday and Thursday mornings.</p> <p style="text-align: left;"><strong>West Fork Farmstead: </strong>Order meat, eggs, honey and produce online at <a href="http://www.westforkfarmstead.com">www.westforkfarmstead.com</a> for delivery (Iowa City, Coralville, North Liberty, Tiffin, Wellman and Kalona) or on-farm pickup in West Chester, Iowa.</p> <p> </p> <h3 style="text-align: left;"><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-2083 alignleft" src="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/stand.jpg" alt="" width="328" height="246" srcset="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/stand.jpg 960w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/stand-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/stand-768x576.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 328px) 100vw, 328px" /></h3> <h3>Visit a “Pop-Up” Booth or Farm Store</h3> <p><em>With farmers markets modified for the times, many producers have started setting up their own outdoors “pop-ups” in the community to sell face-to-face to consumers, while others have made adaptations to safely operate their farm stores. Be sure to wear a mask and maintain some distance between yourself and others if you visit!</em></p> <p><strong>Buffalo Ridge Orchard: </strong>Make an appointment on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/BuffaloRidgeOrchard/">Facebook</a> or with <a href="https://signup.com/client/invitation2/secure/346997844798516021/false#/invitation">this form</a> to visit the Buffalo Ridge Orchard Farm Store, 1337 Rollins Road, Central City on Saturdays between 9 a.m. and 3 p.m.</p> <p><strong>Calico Farm: </strong>Pop-up sales not on a set schedule. Follow on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/calicofarmic/">Facebook</a> and <a href="https://www.instagram.com/bonnie_at_calico_farm/">Instagram</a> for updates! .</p> <p><strong>Green Share LLC: </strong>Shop from a collective of eastern Iowa producers Thursdays from 4-6 p.m. at Brix Cheese Shop & Wine Bar in Iowa City. Follow on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/greensharecsa/">Facebook</a> for updates.</p> <p><strong>Echollective CSA: </strong>Pop-ups every Saturday from 9-11 a.m. in the driveway at 1003 Ginter Ave. Iowa City. Masks are mandatory.</p> <p><strong>Iowa Grown Market:</strong> Pop-ups at Iowa Grown Market 2613 Newport Rd. NE, Solon on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Follow on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/iowagrownmarket/">Facebook</a> and<a href="https://www.instagram.com/iowagrownmarket/"> Instagram</a> for product updates.</p> <p><strong>Squier Squash: </strong>Pop-up sales not on a set schedule. Follow on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Squier-Squash-Donnelly-Farms-346713564022/">Facebook</a> or email squiersquash@netins.net for updates.</p> <p><strong>Stout’s Market:</strong> The Ainsworth farm deals mostly in melons, sweet corn and tomatoes, with some other produce items in the mix. They run numerous roadside stands in eastern Iowa DAILY from early July through Labor Day weekend. Check out their Iowa City stand in Gateway 1 Plaza (outside Fin & Feather on ), or check out info on their other stands<a href="https://www.stoutsmarket.com/pages/about-us"> here.</a></p> <p> </p> <h3>U-Pick Opportunities <img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class=" wp-image-2143 alignright" src="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/242350527_75ab8906f8_b.jpg" alt="" width="319" height="239" srcset="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/242350527_75ab8906f8_b.jpg 1024w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/242350527_75ab8906f8_b-300x225.jpg 300w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/242350527_75ab8906f8_b-768x576.jpg 768w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 319px) 100vw, 319px" /></h3> <p><em>Some farms and orchards offer opportunities for visitors to pick their own locally grown fruit and vegetables on-site. Visiting a farm can be a safe, family friendly activity to enjoy while social distancing. </em></p> <p><strong>Allen’s Orchard:</strong> This orchard in Marion, Iowa offers apples, pears, cherries, pumpkins and more. <a href="http://www.allensorchard.com/">Visit their website</a> for information about the 2020 season.</p> <p><strong>Bagge Strawberries: </strong>Harvest your own strawberries at this farm in Independence, Iowa! <a href="https://www.baggestrawberries.com/">Visit their website</a> for information about the 2020 season.</p> <p><strong>Wilson’s Orchard & Farm: </strong>This Iowa City favorite offers a variety of U-pick products as well as cider, baked goods and other value-added products. <a href="https://www.wilsonsorchard.com/">Visit their website</a> for information about the 2020 season.</p> <h3><img loading="lazy" decoding="async" class="wp-image-2051 alignleft" src="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/F2F_Online_Market_logo.png" alt="" width="257" height="260" srcset="https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/F2F_Online_Market_logo.png 487w, https://fieldtofamily.org/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/F2F_Online_Market_logo-297x300.png 297w" sizes="auto, (max-width: 257px) 100vw, 257px" /></h3> <h3></h3> <h3></h3> <h3>Shop at an Eastern Iowa Farmers Market, in Person or Online</h3> <p><em>Farmers markets remain a great way to connect with local producers. Some have moved online, while others have continued to operate face-to-face under <a href="https://iowaagriculture.gov/sites/default/files/2020/COVID%20resources/Guidance%20for%20Farmers%20Markets_42420.pdf">health and safety guidelines</a> from the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship. This list is not comprehensive: check with your own city for updates on your local market this year. </em></p> <p><strong>The <a href="https://www.icgov.org/farmersmarket">Iowa City Farmers Market</a> </strong>will continue online via Field to Family’s <a href="https://dne.lgu.mybluehost.me/.website_fc07fb88/online-farmers-market/"><strong>Online Farmers Market</strong></a>. Carts open Tuesdays at noon for pickup Saturday mornings at the Chauncey Swan Parking Ramp.</p> <p>The <strong><a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/category/Farmers-Market/Johnson-Co-Market-239966363352506/">Johnson County Winter Farmers Market</a> </strong>started early this year. Visit the County Fairgrounds on Sunday afternoons to shop from local farmers and makers.</p> <p><strong>The</strong> <strong><a href="https://www.marioncc.org/uptown-marion-markets.html">Uptown Marion Market</a></strong> in Marion, Iowa is currently held the second Saturday of each month in City Square Park.</p> <p><strong>The <a href="https://www.cedarrapids.org/events/farmers-market">Cedar Rapids Downtown Farmers Market</a></strong> is now a drive-thru market held every other Saturday morning.</p> <p><strong>The <a href="https://mountvernonfarmersmarket.org/">Mount Vernon Farmers Market</a> </strong>is held Saturday mornings in person at at Riverwalk Park.</p> <p><strong>The <a href="https://www.coralville.org/250/Farmers-Market">Coralville Farmers’ Market</a></strong> runs Monday evenings as both a drive-thru and walk-up market.</p> <p><strong>The <a href="https://www.facebook.com/Solonmarket/">Solon Farmers Market</a> </strong>runs in person Monday evenings in the Mushroom Park lot.</p> <h3></h3> <h3>Other Ways to Access Local Products</h3> <p><strong>New Pioneer Co-Op </strong>sells many local products. Meet vendors through the<a href="https://www.newpimarket.com/vendors"> “New Pi Virutal Market.” </a></p> <p><a href="https://bigboymeats.com/"><strong>Big Boy Meats</strong></a> in Cedar Rapids’ New Bo City Market sells locally sourced meat Thursday through Sunday.</p> <p><strong>Local food pantries</strong> partner with organizations like Grow: Johnson County, Feed Iowa First, Field to Family and others–as well as individual farms–to bring fresh, local produce to patrons. If you are someone who visits food pantries or is experiencing food insecurity, be sure to look for and grab some local in-season produce.</p> <p>Other stores and restaurants offer locally grown options as well. Check out Field to Family’s local foods database <a href="https://localfoodsolutions.org/">here. </a></p> <p> </p> <p> </p> <p>The post <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org/covid-access/">Guide to COVID Times Local Food Access</a> appeared first on <a href="https://fieldtofamily.org">Field to Family </a>.</p> ]]></content:encoded> <wfw:commentRss>https://fieldtofamily.org/covid-access/feed/</wfw:commentRss> <slash:comments>0</slash:comments> </item> </channel> </rss>