Growing Safe Workshop: Foundations of Farm & Garden Food Safety
When: Saturday, Aug 2, 2025
Time: 2:00-3:45
Location: Johnson County Historic Poor Farm
Contact: emmaly@ivrcd.org
Workshop Description:
This interactive workshop is designed for food farmers and market gardeners who are interested in strengthening their understanding of farm food safety practices—whether they are currently selling their products or planning to do so in the future.
Led by Iowa Valley RC&D’s Farmer Development team Emmaly and Kenna, workshop participants will be guided through the complete post-harvest process, from harvest to delivery. The session will cover essential topics including packhouse design and layout, workflow optimization, and sourcing affordable food safety supplies. Whether you’re new to on-farm food safety or looking to refine your systems, this workshop offers practical tools and insights to keep your veggies safe from field to consumer.
This workshop is free in part due to the USDA Land, Capital, and Market Access Program, but registration is required. Ages 16+. Limit: 20 participants.
If you have questions please contact emmaly@ivrcd.org
Workshop Topics | Foundations of Farm & Garden Food Safety
Water Testing - Testing for E. Coli in your water system
Harvest Food Safety - Best fieldside practices + worker health
Manure - Fertilizing safely
Washing - How to properly wash and sanitize veggies
Packaging & Labeling - Food Safe packaging and labeling for wholesale and beyond
Packshed Design - Tour packshed setups on site, from the simple to the commercial
Transportation - Inspecting and preparing your vehicle for product delivery
After the class, join us for our family-friendly field day from 4-8pm at the same location. For more information, visit: Iowa Valley RC&D Field Day