By Andi Anderson
Purdue Student Farm is expanding its community-supported agriculture (CSA) program with a new spring salad kit, available starting March 7. This initiative provides fresh, locally grown produce while supporting student education and hands-on agricultural experience.
The salad kit includes a lettuce base mixed with mustard greens, herbs, root crops like radishes and beets, and vegetables such as cucumbers and cherry tomatoes. All produce is grown at Purdue Student Farm, managed by the Department of Horticulture and Landscape Architecture.
Participants can choose from two CSA package options. The weekly box, available for $20 per week, includes two servings and runs for 10 weeks, totaling $200. The bi-weekly box costs $23 per week, providing two servings every two weeks for a total of $115. The program runs from March 7 to May 9, with only 100 spots available.
The farm is operated by student volunteers, interns, and participants in the Small Farms Experience courses. Senior farm manager Chris Adair emphasized that purchasing a CSA box directly supports students, allowing them to gain real-world agricultural experience.
This year’s salad kit introduces innovative growing methods, utilizing the Overbeck Controlled Environment Agriculture Facility. These vertical farming units help students learn about modern farming technology and sustainable agricultural practices.
“The salad kit CSA program is the first opportunity students will have to use this novel technology for a commercial purpose,” said Student Farm Director Petrus Langenhoven.
The Purdue Student Farm encourages community members to participate in CSA programs to promote sustainable farming and support agricultural education.
Pickup is available at 1491 Cherry Lane, West Lafayette. Interested individuals can sign up online or send payments by check to Purdue Student Farm. More details are available at Purdue Student Farm.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zbynek-pospisil
Categories: Indiana, Education, General