In a recent interview on 'The Valley Today,' host Janet Michael sat down with John Fox, co-owner of Fox Urban Farms, to discuss the innovative urban farm he runs with his wife, Ann, in Winchester, Virginia. Not only is the venture a woman-owned business, but it also leverages state-of-the-art hydroponics technology to produce crops year-round.
John passionately explained how Fox Urban Farms operates out of two mural-clad buildings located near Handley High School. The high-tech hub, equipped with advanced HVAC, plumbing, and computer systems, allows for controlled environmental agriculture (CEA). This means they can manage everything from light cycles and humidity to temperature and nutrients, ensuring optimal growing conditions 365 days a year.
The heart of Fox Urban Farms lies in its commitment to the local community. According to John, the farm was designed with accessibility in mind, located centrally to serve as many people as possible. They accept various forms of payment, including SNAP and EBT, and even offer a 50% discount through the Virginia Fresh Match program. John emphasized that healthier food options contribute to a healthier lifestyle, ultimately reducing medical issues and benefiting the community at large.
The conversation took a serious turn when Janet asked John about food deserts in downtown Winchester. John shed light on the fact that although Winchester has a range of grocery stores, including some lesser-known international and Hispanic grocery stores, there remains a need for fresh, local produce.
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