Produce from Partridge Creek Farm in Ishpeming is pictured. (Journal file photo)

ISHPEMING — The Ishpeming Planning Commission approved a conditional use permit at a recent meeting, allowing Partridge Creek Farm to further develop and expand its farm to produce an additional 7,000 pounds of food this year.

This increase in food growing capacity for Partridge Creek Farm will help it fight food insecurity, according to Sara Johnson, executive director of Partridge Creek Farm.

“The 2024 growing season is the first time we will be growing on the site. We are starting with just one third of an acre, but even this is expected to significantly increase our food production from 2,000 pounds in 2023 to 9,000 pounds this year,” she said.

“Food grown at the intergenerational farm will be distributed to Ishpeming community members (and) school cafeterias, as well as donated to our west end partners,” said Johnson.

Johnson said only one acre of land will be used for growing and the remaining will be used as an educational space or for community gatherings. There are still many milestones left, including site preparation, water connections and electrical work.

“All these efforts are made possible by our funders: the Community Foundation of Marquette County, the West End Health Foundation, the (U.S. Department of Agriculture) and the Ishpeming Lions Club,” said Johnson.

Starting June 26, customers will be able to purchase produce from the farm which will accept cash and cards, said Johnson. SNAP/EBT and Food as Medicine vouchers will also be accepted.

Johnson also said that starting June 27, Thursdays will be farm work days that are open to the public. People of any age are welcome to come and help.

Additionally, the farm is looking for a truck to help with operating efforts. To make a donation or learn more about Partridge Creek Farm, visit its website at partridgecreekfarm.org.

Antonio Anderson can be reached at 906-228-2500, ext. 550. His email address is aanderson@miningjournal.net.