Two Wisconsin farmers are hoping to make their farm more accessible to the public.
Shawn Kuhn and Tommy Stauffer are co-owners of Vitruvian Farms in McFarland. They grow a variety of greens and mushrooms.
“We got interested in farming while we were in college together and basically just learned that there’s a lot of problems with the food system,” Kuhn said. “We decided we wanted to be a part of changing it for the better.”
Vitruvian Farms, originally focused on supplying produce to Madison area restaurants, expanded its vision in March 2020 by launching an online store and home delivery service. This service quickly became a staple in the community, offering not only Vitruvian’s own produce but also a variety of products from over 50 local vendors.
A Vision for Local, Sustainable Food
“Opening a physical store on the farm has always been a dream of ours,” said Stauffer. “We wanted to create a space where the community can connect directly with the source of their food. When you shop here, you can see our greenhouses and fields where the produce is grown. It’s a unique experience that bridges the gap between farm and table.”
Sustainable Practices and Community Engagement
The farm is certified organic, ensuring that no synthetic pesticides are used, and prioritizes practices that protect both consumer health and the environment. The Farm Store offers a diverse range of products. In addition to Vitruvian’s salad greens, mushrooms, and seasonal vegetables, the store features over 400 items from local producers. This includes meats, dairy, breads, grains, and more, emphasizing the farm’s commitment to supporting the local economy and providing the freshest food possible.
An Expanding Vision
The farm operates year-round with a dedicated team managing various aspects of production, from planting microgreens to harvesting mushrooms. With about 25 full-time employees, Vitruvian Farms cultivates around seven acres intensively, producing a significant amount of food per acre.
“Our farm is evolving into a multifaceted operation,” noted Stauffer. “In addition to farming, we’re running a grocery store, an online delivery service, and a specialized mushroom production. We have big ambitions for the future, including more community events and an expanded entertainment space, all while keeping agriculture at our core.”
Community-Centered Shopping Experience
“We’re encouraging people to start their shopping with us,” said Stayffer. “Our store offers the freshest produce and a wide variety of locally produced goods. By supporting local farmers and businesses, our customers are contributing to a healthier community and a more sustainable environment.”
They only sell what’s in season at the store. They said customers who come here can feel confident knowing where their food is coming from. Their next goal is to build a community event space on the farm.
