There is a resurgence of vegetable and fruit production, processing and marketing in the midwestern United States. Operations of all sizes are starting up, and small-scale operations are growing. The Fruit and Vegetable Working Group formed to address issues limiting the growth of these businesses and their ability to deliver products to our local and regional markets. Challenges exist within the chain of business, from production to business management, processing, and wholesale and retail marketing. Working group members identify and prioritize the most important issues for focus. Topics identified by members include: beginning farmers; recruiting, managing and retaining good employees; postharvest handling; and improving marketing.

The FVWG is part of Value Chain Partnerships led by the Leopold Center for Sustainable Agriculture with partners from Iowa State University and Practical Farmers of Iowa. Value Chain Partnerships supports farmer-led food and fiber enterprises that follow sustainable practices.

We are working to further develop relationships with key partners organizations:

• Iowa Fruit and Vegetable Growers Association
• ISU Department of Horticulture
• Iowa Network for Community Agriculture
• Practical Farmers of Iowa
• ISU Value Added Agriculture