By Scout Nelson
The first growing season at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln's Husker Produce Farm has produced more than fresh fruits and vegetables. The initiative has improved community food access, provided hands-on learning opportunities for students, and demonstrated how agricultural research can support local food systems.
Supported by a $90,000 grant, the project transformed an existing crop research site on East Campus into a working farm focused on food production, education, and community outreach. The funding was made possible through the university's community-impact program tied to its success in the 2024 Abbott and Big Ten We Give Blood competition.
The farm is led by Sam Wortman, a professor in the Department of Agronomy and Horticulture and the project's principal investigator. Building on years of specialty crop research, the team has created a program that connects research, teaching, and community engagement through practical agricultural production.
During its first commercial season, the farm harvested about 15,000 pounds of produce across 15 crops, including tomatoes, potatoes, onions, cabbage, lettuce, carrots, watermelon, and fresh herbs. The produce was supplied to university dining services and community organizations such as the Food Bank of Lincoln and Food Fort.
The partnership has helped increase the availability and variety of fresh produce for families served by Food Fort. The collaboration has also strengthened connections between the university and local organizations working to improve food access.
The farm serves as an important educational resource for students. Five students, including undergraduate interns and graduate students, participated in farm operations while conducting projects involving vegetable varieties, insect management strategies, and specialty crop production.
One of the farm's first interns, Evan Allberry, gained experience in specialty crop production and horticulture through hands-on work in the field. Student involvement remains a key component of the program's mission.
Looking ahead, the Husker Produce Farm aims to produce at least 30,000 pounds of fresh food annually for local food banks while providing educational opportunities for more than 300 students each year. Future plans include expanding infrastructure, strengthening food-safety practices, and developing partnerships that help connect Nebraska growers with institutional food buyers.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zbynek-pospisil
Categories: Nebraska, Crops, Fruits and Vegetables, Sustainable Agriculture