IU Campus Farm at Hinkle-Garton farmstead will start a community-supported agriculture program, called a CSA, in a few weeks. This program allows local residents to have fresh vegetables delivered to their door every week for the growing season. People can buy a full or half box of produce for $150 or $85. The boxes include a wide variety of vegetables that vary throughout the growing season. If you are interested in signing up for a subscription act fast because they have limited spots. While the farm has not been certified organic, they follow the regulations of an organic farm.
An interesting thing about the Hinkle-Garton farmstead is that it has not always been a part of the IU Campus Farm.
Faculty Co-Director James Farmer talks about the history of the farmstead.
While much of the produce is distributed through the CSA program, some of the produce they grow is donated to food-insecure people through Mother Hubbard Cupboard. Also, the cost of the subscriptions helps fund education and research on the farm. Some research examples, Dr. Heather Reynolds is working on various types of mulching for tomato plants, professor Rowland Ricketts is producing indigo that he uses in his classes, and professor Jon Eldon who is researching different styles of high tunnels and their effect on soil systems.
While there is research being done by professors, there are also opportunities for students to volunteer at the farm.
Farm Manager Erin Carman-Sweeny
They have filled the position for an intern but, there are also opportunities for students to get involved in research and receive grants.
If you don’t want to buy a subscription but still want to try some of their produce, they have what they call Farm Stand every Wednesday from May to the end of October. From 4 – 7 on Wednesdays they open up for people to buy produce and to learn more about the farm.
Lastly, if you want to support the farm further than purchasing their produce they are accepting donations. They are welcoming both financial donations and equipment donations.
For any questions related to the farm email iufarm@indiana.edu.
