The Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship has awarded $300 mini-grants to 30 sponsors as part of the Iowa Farm to Summer campaign's "Root for Radishes!" initiative. This statewide program aims to boost children's participation in summer meal sites while promoting local radishes as the vegetable of the summer. By supporting local producers, the campaign seeks to increase market demand for Iowa farmers.
Participants are required to source local produce and engage children through educational activities. Ideas include growing radishes in school gardens, inviting farmers to share farm-grown radishes, or conducting outdoor demonstrations featuring radish snacks.
The 30 selected sponsors were chosen from 51 applicants, including summer meal site sponsors, community partners, and early childhood education providers. The list of 30 participating locations can be found here.
Funded by the Iowa Department of Agriculture and Land Stewardship through the Specialty Crop Block Grant, this 5-year campaign will focus on a different vegetable each summer. The program aims to promote nutritious Iowa produce and build connections between consumers and local farmers. For more information, visit the Iowa Farm to School and Early Coalition website and follow the hashtag #IowaFarmtoSummer.
The "Root for Radishes!" campaign signifies Iowa's commitment to fostering a love for fresh, locally grown produce among children, supporting local farmers, and establishing a healthier and sustainable food system for future generations.
Photo Credit: GettyImages-pixdeluxe
Categories: Iowa, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables, Sustainable Agriculture, Weather