A new partnership aims to bring fresh, local produce to those in need in central Wisconsin. The Wisconsin PureGrow Project: A Sustainable Growth Initiative was launched at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point at Marshfield, according to a community announcement. The collaboration involves the university, Marshfield Clinic region of Sanford Health and Fork Farms, an agriculture technology company based in Green Bay.
The project will use indoor hydroponic technology to grow produce year-round. This will support the health and well-being of patients, staff and visitors at Marshfield Clinic, as well as underserved community members.
Fork Farms will manage the hydroponic systems, known as Flex Acre and Flex Micro farms, housed inside the UWSP at Marshfield campus. These systems can grow a variety of foods, including leafy greens, herbs, peppers, cucumbers and cherry tomatoes. Each Flex Acre can produce hundreds of pounds of produce annually, while the compact Flex Micro is suitable for kitchens and classrooms.
"In communities across Wisconsin, families face impossible choices between nutrition and affordability. The Wisconsin PureGrow Project aims to change that by providing locally grown healthy foods," said Jay Shrader, vice president of community impact and social accountability at Marshfield Clinic.
Read more at Marshfield News Herald
