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
2020 IFVGA Lifetime Achievement Award Winners!
The Iowa Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association presented two IFVGA Lifetime Achievement Awards at the Iowa Specialty Producers Awards Banquet. These individuals have dedicated many years of service and commitment to our organization and industry. Congratulations to Dean & Judy Henry (Berry Patch Farms) and Helen & the late Dave Huitink (Pumpkinland).
SAVE THE DATE
Mark your calendars for Janaury 21-22 for the 2021 Iowa Specialty Producers Conference!
News
Local Food Producers, Businesses Move to Online Sales and Contactless Delivery
As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, businesses across the state are trying new and innovative strategies to remain open and continue to serve Iowans. Farms and food businesses are also stepping up to meet the demand for local food products. Many farmers markets are moving to online sales and virtual options to continue to support customers and vendors in this trying time. The Farm, Food and Enterprise Development program from Iowa State University Extension and Outreach has resources to help Iowa’s small farms, food systems and business enterprises. FFED provides current COVID-19 resources for small farms, food systems and business enterprises at its website, https://www.extension.iastate.edu/ffed/ffed-covid-resources/. Learn more…
Restrictions on Farmers Markets Continue through May 27
Gov. Kim Reynolds has extended the state’s Public Health Emergency Declaration as it pertains to farmers markets. The governor’s latest proclamation allows farmers markets to continue operating, but only to sell food and farm products. An earlier proclamation allowed farmers markets to open as of April 24, under the same restrictions. Learn more…
Farmers Markets and U-Pick Operations Can Sell Food, but Should Follow Requirements
Local foods producers and consumers who rely on Iowa’s farmers markets for food are able to conduct business as of April 24, according to a decision by Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds. The governor’s Proclamation of Disaster Emergency allows farmers markets to operate, but only to sell food and farm products. The markets should follow basic social distancing and hygiene and public health measures. Vendor booths are required to be at least six feet apart, and common seating areas are prohibited. Learn more…
Local Food and Supply Chain Resources Available amid COVID-19
The COVID-19 pandemic continues to have a far-reaching impact within the food supply and value chain system, affecting multiple sectors of the food economy. In an effort to help explain the many issues and options, the Farm, Food and Enterprise Development program with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is sharing timely resources and answers online. Learn more…