No matter the season in Erie County, No Dirt Farms' greenhouse provides a controlled environment where hundreds of heads of fresh, leafy greens can thrive. Located in Fairview, No Dirt Farms is true to its name; its produce – mostly a variety of lettuce – is grown using hydroponics.
By implementing these methods, No Dirt Farms saves space without cutting down on productivity, plus it can provide produce to the region all year. "That was my vision when I started No Dirt Farms – to be able to give people fresh produce year-round because in Erie, we are so limited to anything fresh in these January, February, March months," says Amanda Hines, who started the farm after shutting down her salon in Fairview.
Now, Erie County residents can enjoy lettuce, tomatoes, eggplant, herbs, and a variety of other produce all year. In addition to being a self-taught farmer, Hines also owns Westside Market on Powell, a marketplace that connects people with local farmers and vendors who prioritize sustainability. The market, which is stocked with produce from No Dirt Farms as well as other farms around Erie County, has made it more convenient for residents to find local produce.
"This is a one-stop shop where you can be supporting everybody," Hines says.
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