FOOD | FARM STANDS

EIGHT OUTSTANDING IN THE FIELD SOUTHERN WISCONSIN FARM STANDS

Wisconsin is an agricultural powerhouse.  The Badger State ranks second in the U.S. for the number of organic farms. And for day trippers, so many options abound in Southern Wisconsin for fresh fruit, eggs, meat and vegetables direct from our farmer's fields.

Six years ago, many Wisconsin farmers were hurting from the economic downturn, tariffs, and shuttered farmer's markets due to the pandemic. Local farmers needed new revenue streams. Difficult times gave birth to a new novel approach to the local agrarian economy. Farmers quickly embraced ecommerce and encouraged visitors to their farms. Visiting a roadside farm stand is easier than ever with so many to choose from. And, it's a great way to support local farms and keep your money circulating locally in the community. Buying your produce directly from a farmer's field is also a great way to teach kids about the value of food, demystify produce normally encountered at a grocery store, and local agriculture's role in their lives.

Several farms in Southern Wisconsin offer fresh produce throughout the Summer and early Fall (to late Fall apples), and even into the Winter months (meat, canned goods, root vegetables, potatoes, and eggs.) In the Summer expect to discover: several varieties of corn, squash, zucchini, tomatoes, broccoli, peppers, cauliflower, cabbage, onions, potatoes. Prices are often reasonable and produce obviously fresher when compared to grocery chain bought varieties.

There are so many to choose from on your way or near a planned stay. Remember to wear a mask, wash your hands and keep socially distant when interacting with people outside your home. Roadside stands offer a quick way to stock up on all the produce essentials while staying safe.