Programs making fresh produce available on campus this summer

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Every week into the fall, the M Farmers Markets will provide a wide variety of locally grown vegetables, fruits and other farm products on the Ann Arbor campus.

Through a collaboration of several university groups, the farmers markets have expanded from last year’s three locations to five sites across campus:  Michigan Union, Wolverine Tower, North Campus Research Complex, University Hospital Courtyard and Pierpont Commons.

The university also has partnered with two local farms to give faculty and staff an opportunity to participate in a Community Supported Agriculture program, which allows participants to purchase a box or basket of farm-fresh seasonal vegetables each week. Two produce pick-up sites are available near campus.

“With the expanded farmers market program, fresh produce will be available on campus nearly every day of the work week,” says Erica Owen, manager of nutrition and weight management services for MHealthy. “The markets and CSA program give our community even more opportunities to get super fresh produce at a reasonable price and make healthier food choices at work and at home.”

The newly expanded M Farmers Market brings fresh, locally-grown produce to campus nearly every work day. (Photo by Eric Bronson, Michigan Photography)

M Farmers Markets

Locally grown, fresh, seasonal produce, as well as flowers, potted plants, herbs and other goods may be purchased four days a week from 11 a.m.-1 p.m., at one of five locations:  

• Every Monday — Michigan Union in the MUG on the ground floor

• Select Tuesdays — Wolverine Tower, G18

• Select Tuesdays — NCRC, Building 18

• Every Thursday — University Hospital Courtyard

• Every Friday — Outside Pierpont Commons U-go’s

All produce is provided by local Michigan farms, with Zilke Vegetable Farm of Milan serving as the main source. Zilke is a family-owned and operated farm that does not use chemicals or pesticides.

Purchases can be made with cash, a credit or debit card, or with a Zilke Vegetable Farm CSA membership.

Community Supported Agriculture programs

Through a partnership with Prochaska Farms of Tecumseh and Tantré Farms of Chelsea, faculty and staff can purchase a 12-week “share” in the farm’s harvest. Shares must be purchased by July 1.

A “share” typically consists of a box or basket of farm-fresh seasonal vegetables, with other farm products possibly included. Weekly pick-up sites near campus include:

• Washtenaw Food Hub, 4175 Whitmore Lake Road — Every Wednesday, July 8-Sept. 23, 3 p.m.-6 p.m. Organic produce provided by Tantré Farms

• Green Road Parking Lot, 1919 Green Road — Every Thursday, July 9-Sept. 24, 3 p.m.-6 p.m. Produce provided by Prochaska Farms

The markets and CSA program are a partnership between MHealthy, UMHS, Michigan Dining, Central Student Government and Planet Blue.

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Comments

  1. Terry Weymouth
    on June 17, 2015 at 5:27 am

    The schedule states, “Select Tuesdays” for NCRC. How do I find out which Tuesdays?

  2. Sharon Redmer
    on June 17, 2015 at 5:53 am

    Are retirees eligible to join the Community Supported Agriculture Program?

    • erica owen
      on June 17, 2015 at 7:49 am

      Yes, anyone can join.

  3. Wendy Miller
    on June 17, 2015 at 8:44 am

    Sounds like a wonderful program for the farmers and the participants. What happens to produce that is not sold? Food Gatherers?

    • Keith Soster
      on June 17, 2015 at 3:36 pm

      Wendy, left over produce is incorporated into our operations. We also work with FRN (Food Recovery Network) with left over prepared food.

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