HARVESTING ON NEW GROUNDS

AGRIPARK FARMERS, OUTSTANDING IN THEIR FIELD

The Fishers AgriPark opened to the public in July 2020, providing many chances for students and families to enjoy the outdoors and to learn about the plants and animals around them. The 33-acre urban farm has been making a significant impact on the community. The AgriPark includes various activities including public gardens, nature play area, mud play kitchen, programming barn, nature trails and much more.

The gardens are open from early July to late October. During that period, people can visit the AgriPark and pick their own produce or cut their own flowers free of charge. The AgriPark has partnered with HSE Schools to provide field trips to second graders to teach them about things like erosion, the equipment used on farms or in fields and where exactly their food comes from. Their partnership with the Future Farmers of America (FFA) program allows students interested in an agricultural career to volunteer and learn more about managing a farm. Trevor Wildey, the agricultural operations manager at the park, has spent three years supporting these students.

“The city benefits from a park like this in many ways,” Wildey said. “From fresh produce, education opportunities, volunteer opportunities, programs and special events, and offering a unique experience for our community. The park encourages people to try different produce and educates the community on the importance of farming as a career.”

Applied Science teacher, Tom Younts, has also noticed an educational benefit from the park. The park has volunteer opportunities for nearly every interest. People can work with plants, animals or teach kids who visit the park.

“[The park] has strengthened our curriculum,” Younts said. “When the students go to teach at the park, they have already learned about agriculture for a strong foundation of agricultural science to share.”

The Fishers AgriPark has been largely successful in its mission and has provided numerous advantages for the community and HSE Schools. Looking ahead to the future, the park encourages residents and students to get involved.

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“Come out and enjoy all the aspects of the park,” Wildey said. “Be sure to take some produce, see the animals, walk the nature trail and just enjoy the great outdoors. It’s fun to get down and dirty. Helping us plant and pick is very rewarding.”

For those interested in volunteering at the AgriPark or learning more about it, scan the code on this page to visit their website. Story and infographic by Aubrey Matasovsky and Julianna Wells.