DUBUQUE, Iowa — The Dubuque St. Vincent de Paul organization officially began its Urban Farm project with a groundbreaking ceremony on Monday. This initiative, in partnership with the John Deere Foundation, aims to provide fresh produce year-round to the Voucher Center Food Pantry on Iowa Street.

Executive Director Rick Merfeld highlighted the ongoing challenge of supplying fresh fruits and vegetables due to availability and cost. "Keeping the shelves stocked has become an obstacle we face for our pantry," Merfeld said.

The farm will feature a 1,300-square-foot greenhouse from Farmtek/Growspan, located next to the St. Vincent de Paul warehouse. It will employ both traditional and hydroponic growing methods, including non-traditional produce like bananas. A geothermal element will also

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