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 in 2023!
News
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…
Tomatoes are one of the most popular vegetables grown at home. They are available in a variety of sizes, shapes and colors and benefit from staking and training to keep the sprawling plants off the ground. In this article, horticulturists with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach answer questions about the options for home gardeners to train and stake their tomatoes. Learn more…
Secretary Naig Reminds Farmers, Apiarists to Update Information on Iowa Sensitive Crop Directory
Iowa Secretary of Agriculture Mike Naig today encouraged producers of pesticide sensitive crops to renew their field and beehive entries on the Iowa Sensitive Crops Registry. “The Iowa Sensitive Crop Registry is an effective tool to support communication between producers of specialty crops, beekeepers and pesticide applicators – all important aspects of Iowa agriculture,” said Secretary Naig. Learn more…
Randall Vos Named New Commercial Fruit Crop Specialist
The newest commercial fruit crop specialist with Iowa State University Extension and Outreach will use his extensive background in the industry to help Iowa fruit growers overcome challenges. Learn more…