Garuda Farms co-founder Sean Malone began his career in freight logistics, where he often handled shipments of lettuce, onions, and carrots. After observing how crops were grown in California, he became concerned about the heavy use of water and fuel in conventional farming. This led him to explore more sustainable alternatives.
Malone dove into hydroponics, taking online courses through Iowa State to learn more. Once his wife supported the idea, he didn't hesitate to pursue it.
Today, he grows leafy greens like romaine and Bibb lettuce year-round at his farm in Tipton, using no soil or pesticides and only a fraction of the water typical farms use.
Malone chose Tipton for its central location, with nearby markets like the Quad Cities, Iowa City, and Cedar Rapids all within 50 miles. Because the greens don't travel far, they stay fresh longer—a benefit local restaurants appreciate. For Malone, it's about moving away from "Big Lettuce" and toward a more sustainable, locally focused model that reduces waste and aligns with his values.
Original source: www.kcrg.com
