By Andi Anderson
Iowa State University Extension and Outreach is expanding community access to food education and produce processing through its Crop Cart initiative.
The mobile units are designed to support farmers, food businesses, community organizations, and residents by providing resources for fresh fruit and vegetable processing, nutrition education, and product development.
The Crop Cart project is currently operating in three Iowa counties: Winneshiek, Cass, and Washington. These mobile processing units help bring educational opportunities directly to communities while encouraging local food innovation and healthy eating habits.
One recent example of the project’s community outreach took place during Winneshiek County’s Earth Day Festival on April 25, 2026.
During the event, more than 300 people sampled apple nachos prepared by Iowa State University Extension and Outreach staff. The activity helped introduce visitors to nutritious food options while highlighting the capabilities of the Crop Cart program.
The initiative began with a prototype that was first tested in 2021. Encouraged by its early success, the project received funding through an Iowa State University Extension and Outreach catalyst grant in 2024. This support allowed the creation of three additional Crop Carts, expanding the program’s reach and impact.
The carts were developed by the Community and Economic Development unit to address challenges faced by farmers and food entrepreneurs.
Many communities lack adequate produce processing equipment, storage facilities, and distribution infrastructure. These limitations can make it difficult for producers to create value-added products that increase profitability and extend the shelf life of fresh produce.
Each Crop Cart is equipped with tools designed for fruit and vegetable processing. Local organizations and food businesses can rent the carts for a variety of purposes, including food safety training, nutrition and health education, recipe development, taste-testing events, and value-added product creation.
The program also provides a practical learning experience that helps community members better understand food production and healthy eating. By offering hands-on demonstrations, the carts make educational activities more engaging and accessible.
“When people can see it, touch it, and taste it, learning sticks. The ISU Crop Cart brings that experience directly to communities across Winneshiek County and Iowa,” said Allie McIntyre, Winneshiek County extension program director and Master Gardener coordinator.
County extension offices manage rental requests, making the carts available to individuals, organizations, and businesses interested in promoting food education and local food development.
Through this innovative approach, Iowa State University Extension and Outreach continues to strengthen community connections, support agricultural entrepreneurship, and encourage healthier food choices across the state.
Photo Credit: pexels-julia-m-cameron
Categories: Iowa, Education