Ohio Urban Farms Offer Fresh Produce and More

Across the nation, the traditional view of farms is changing including the addition of urban farms. While sprawling, rural fields with hundreds of rows of crops are still an important part of Ohio agriculture, now you can find farm-fresh produce, herbs, and more growing smack dab in the middle of a city on urban farms. Look no further than the Ohio City Farm, which sits on 6 acres in downtown Cleveland – one of the largest urban farms in the country bringing fresh food to inner-city residents.

Humble Beginnings

“The Ohio City Farm started in 2010 as a collaboration between Great Lakes Brewing Company, Refugee Response, Ohio City Incorporated, and the Cuyahoga Metro Housing Authority,” says Michael Bartunek, senior farm manager. “The land itself used to have low-rise public housing on it, but it was found to be sinking at a very slow rate. They didn’t want to build more housing, and it was decided to turn it into a farm.” 

See more: 5 U.S. Urban Farms Providing Their Communities With Fresh, Local Food

Bartunek has been part of the farm for five years, and he says the goal was not only to provide fresh produce to the local community but also to empower refugees with jobs and the opportunity to become self-sufficient, contributing members of that community.  

“All employees except for myself and our marketing and sales person are refugees,” Bartunek says. “It’s been a really satisfying and eye-opening experience for me working with them. We farm by hand, and they are so resourceful and tolerant. The people who work here really make our farm what it is.” 

City-Grown Produce

The Ohio City Farm grows approximately 60 different types of vegetables and herbs, with multiple varieties. They sell produce through a couple different avenues, including a 20-week Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program, weekly farm stands, and to area restaurants. 

See more: Urban Indoor Farms Grow High-Quality Produce

“We sell probably around 60,000 pounds of vegetables and herbs each year,” Bartunek says. “Our CSA program is popular, and we always survey our customers to see what people like and don’t like. Typically, our lettuce mix is a favorite as well as heirloom tomatoes, garlic, and onions. Carrots and beets also tend to be big crowd pleasers because they last a bit longer.”

Sharing the Urban Farm

As a public entity, Ohio City Farm is open to all residents in the city. They also offer tours and volunteering opportunities, and Bartunek says for an urban farm, these types of hands-on interactions are a huge part of the impact on the local community.

“I think when we give tours and have people there to volunteer, it helps people who grew up in the city make that connection of how food is grown and working the land,” he says.

Ohio City Farm also hosts several events throughout the year to raise funds and share the story of agriculture with local residents.

Bartunek says they hold farm-to-table dinners and have an annual benefit with local entertainment, food, and drinks. 

Fresh From the City

“We have a great location and view of downtown. Consumers can find us easily, so that helps to share our mission,” he says. 

Ultimately, Bartunek says that urban farms are paramount in helping consumers understand that fresh produce doesn’t come from the grocery store. He’s proud to be part of Ohio City Farm, bringing healthy food to Cleveland’s underserved residents, boosting the local economy, and providing job opportunities to refugees.

See more: Victory Gardens Take on New Purpose in Ohio

“I think that urban farms help to change people’s minds and feelings toward food. When they get involved and learn how to grow their own food, it’s impactful and they can make that connection,” Bartunek says. “You won’t look at a carrot the same way after you’ve pulled it out of the ground. Especially for children, I think that’s really where the magic is at.”