Introduction

The Center for Integrated Agriculture is an assistance resource to the agricultural community, providing training and technical assistance to both beginning and existing farmers as well as a connection to local food for consumers. It is a project of Florida West Coast Resource Conservation & Development Council (RC&D), Inc.
The Center operates out of three locations in Manatee County, FL: Gamble Creek Farm in Parrish, Geraldson Community Farm in Bradenton, and Florida West Coast RC&D headquarters in Ellenton.

Gamble Creek Farm, a working diverse vegetable farm in Parrish, FL, that distributes its produce through a variety of methods including community-supported agriculture (CSA), u-pick, farm stand, and weekly booth at Phillippi Farmhouse Market in Sarasota . Gamble Creek Farm provides a unique demonstration of various types of irrigation and growing methods such as hydroponics, earthboxes, and in-ground production. The farm also utilizes many best-management practices and conservation features allowing farmers to not only witness the practices but also to access the data that allows them to perform cost/benefit analysis of each. Gamble Creek Farm also provides a model of maintaining certified organic production and conventional production as a “split operation”.

Geraldson Community Farm is a certified organic CSA in Bradenton, FL that serves as an excellent model for biodiversity and soil building techniques. By combing proper crop rotation, conservation tillage, cover cropping, and composting, Geraldson Community Farm showcases a successful soil building program. This farm also provides demonstration of integrated pest management (IPM) practices as well as effective weed management for organic operations.

Florida West Coast RC&D headquarters in Ellenton is the office location for our helpful project staff, and also includes a small beginner farmer library and quiet workspace that is available by appointment. Call (941)981-0111 to schedule a time to visit!

Get Involved

There are several ways for anyone with an interest in farming and local food to get involved at The Center for Integrated Agriculture:

Beginner Farmers

If you are a beginner farmer looking for opportunities to enhance your knowledge and abilities by working under the close mentorship of an experienced grower, you may be interested in becoming a farm apprentice at Gamble Creek Farm.

For beginner farmers serious about starting their own farm business and looking to acquire the knowledge and skills to take the next step, complete our request for assistance form.

Existing Growers

If you are looking to expand into new markets and target more customers you may be interested in our business training programs or see if a business assessment may help guide your new venture.

If you would like to find out more information about our Manatee Agricultural Reuse (MARS) Farmer Connection Grant Program, contact us to find out if you are eligible for program services.

Consumers

If you are looking for ways to get involved in local food you may be interested in finding out more about Gamble Creek Farm, Geraldson Community Farm, or check out Farmlink.org to find a local food opportunity that’s right for you!