US (WI): Nelson and Pade donates aquaponically-grown lettuce to schools

In celebration of National Farm to School Month, Nelson and Pade has donated fresh, aquaponically-grown lettuce to the Westfield and Montello public school districts. On Monday, October 23rd, Nelson and Pade staff member, Jannel Dunn, personally delivered the freshly harvested, Certified Naturally Grown produce to each school district. The lettuce is grown in Clear Flow Aquaponic Systems at Nelson and Pade’s greenhouse facilities in Montello, WI.

Farms around the country are embracing the Farm to School concept, which enriches the connection communities have with fresh, healthy food and local food producers by changing food procurement and education practices at schools and preschools. Students gain access to healthy, local foods as well as education opportunities. Farm to School empowers children and their families to make informed food choices while strengthening the local economy and contributing to vibrant communities.

This is the third year in a row that Nelson and Pade has celebrated National Farm to School Month by sharing their fresh lettuce - grown without pesticides, herbicides or chemicals - with the 9 public schools located in the Westfield and Montello School Districts. Students, teachers and administrators have expressed their sincere pleasure in receiving this locally-grown lettuce to be served in the school lunch program. The lettuce grown at Nelson and Pade is produced year round and is available at their onsite farm stand as well as local grocery stores and restaurants.

Nelson and Pade helps people get started and become successful in aquaponic food production by providing training, proven systems and long-term grower support. To date, people from 103 countries and all 50 U.S. states have traveled to Montello to attend Nelson and Pade’s 3-day Aquaponics Master Class.

For more information on Nelson and Pade, aquaponic food production, or to schedule a tour, visit: www.aquaponics.com or call 608-297-8708.

Farm stand details: Nelson and Pade, W3731 State Hwy 23, Montello, WI 53949, Monday-Saturday 8am-5pm

For more information on the National Farm to School Program, visit www.farmtoschool.org