Indiana County Conservation District (ICCD) is leading the charge in advancing specialty crop production in Indiana County. With the help of a $34,000 grant from Colcom in 2023, ICCD has established a thriving initiative aimed at diversifying agriculture, strengthening local food systems, and fostering educational opportunities for both farmers and the community.
What Are Specialty Crops and Why Do They Matter?
Specialty crops include a broad range of fruits, vegetables, tree nuts, dried fruits, herbs, horticulture, and nursery crops. These crops, from apples and walnuts to rosemary and hops, are not only valuable for their economic potential but also for their role in promoting biodiversity, improving soil health, and supporting sustainable agriculture.
Indiana County’s agricultural landscape has changed significantly over the past two decades, with a decline in dairy farms and an increase in beef and grain production.
Since 2012, many farms in the region have struggled, and according to the 2017 Indiana County Ag Census, only 9% of local farms sell directly to consumers, highlighting a gap in the local food system. Specialty crops offer an opportunity to reverse these trends by giving farmers a new revenue stream while addressing local food needs.
ICCD’s Solution: A Hub for Specialty Crops
To address the above challenges, ICCD approached Colcom Foundation in 2023, proposing to create the Indiana County Hub for the Advancement of Specialty Crops at its facility. ICCD’s goal was to enhance local food production, empower small farmers, and educate the community on the benefits of specialty crops. Colcom awarded a $34,000 grant that same year, helping ICCD achieve several key milestones including:
- High Tunnel Greenhouse Construction – The greenhouse provides a controlled environment for year-round plant propagation and extending the growing season for specialty crops.
- In-Ground Garden Beds – Garden beds showcase the cultivation of various fruits, vegetables, and herbs and demonstrate passive season extension techniques.
- 988 Pounds of Fresh Produce in 2024 – ICCD donated all produce generated to local food banks, directly supporting food-insecure residents.
- Educational Workshops – ICCD hosted five workshops in the high tunnel in 2024, engaging farmers and community members in hands-on learning.
- Student Collaboration – Students from the Indiana County Technical Center built the high tunnel’s frame, providing valuable real-world construction experience.
Looking ahead, ICCD plans to enhance the greenhouse with automated temperature controls, shade cloth, pest protection, irrigation systems, and accessibility improvements. ICCD’s specialty crops program has been an overwhelming success, with plans to double food production to nearly 2,000 pounds in 2025. By investing in sustainable specialty crop production, ICCD is ensuring a healthier, more resilient agricultural future for Indiana County—one that supports local farmers, strengthens food security, and fosters a community-driven approach to farming.