Who we are
The Iowa Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association was established in 1984 to promote the interests of fruit and vegetable growers of the state through meetings, access to information, research, networking and mentoring opportunities. The Iowa Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association continues to thrive and operates with a nine-member board. IFVGA remains an affiliate of its grandparent organization, the Iowa State Horticultural Society.
Featured
2022 IFVGA Lifetime Achievement Award Winner!
The 2022 IFVGA Lifetime Achievement Award Winner Recipient is Darrell and Malinda Geisler! In 2005, Darrell and Malinda opened their farm to visitors. For 17 years they served their community through family fun, education and involvement.
The Geisler’s have been key members of our association over the years. Darrell served on the IFVGA board member from 2010 to 2015. He served as IFVGA president from 2012 to 2015. Darrell and Malinda also coordinated IFVGA’s booth at the Iowa State Fair, sponsored the Big Pumpkin Contest, and hosted many IFVGA and partner meetings on their farm.
Congratulations to Darrell and Malinda Geisler in honor of their many years of dedicated service and commitment to our organization and industry!
Our third annual Iowa Specialty Producers Conference was another successful event! Weren’t able to attend? Visit www.iowaspecialtyproducers.com to purchase access to the conference recordings. We look forward to seeing you February 22-23, 2023!
News
Iowa to Celebrate Fruit and Vegetable Week
Recognizing the importance of the state’s specialty crop industry, Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds has designated July 25-29 as Iowa Fruit and Vegetable Week. The weeklong celebration recognizes the state’s 1,084 vegetable and 1,714 fruit operations, the nutritious products they produce and the consumers who depend on locally sourced fruits and vegetables. Learn more…
Fruit and Vegetable Field Day Is Aug. 15
The horticulture team with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach will hold the 2022 Fruit and Vegetable Field Day Aug. 15 at Iowa State University’s Horticulture Research Station northeast of Ames. The annual event will feature various research and demonstration projects on fruit and vegetable production for commercial growers, extension personnel, nonprofit organizations and master gardeners. Learn more…
Wine and Grape Field Day to Be Held July 27
The Department of Food Science and Human Nutrition at Iowa State University will host the 2022 Wine Grape Field Day on Wednesday, July 27. This field day is offered to grape growers and winemakers, extension personnel and nonprofit organizations. The field day will run from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. and will feature two separate sessions. Learn more…
Food Safety Training Available for Home-based Vendors and Farmers Markets
Selling food to the public is a big responsibility. Numerous state and federal laws are in place to keep the public safe and assure that important food safety protocols are followed. However, navigating all of the dos and don’ts can be a challenge. Depending on what exactly is being sold, and how much, many Iowa food vendors may be exempt from state licensing and federal requirements. But knowing the requirements and best practices is still wise. Learn more…