Food Is Medicine in Action: The Wisconsin PureGrow Project

Industry

Healthcare

Challenge

Like many communities across Wisconsin, the Marshfield region faces persistent food access challenges, particularly for individuals managing chronic health conditions. Seasonal limitations and supply chain disruptions make consistent access to fresh produce difficult, while healthcare systems seek new ways to integrate nutrition into patient care. At the same time, educational institutions are looking for hands-on, real-world learning environments that prepare students for careers in sustainable agriculture, food systems, and community health.

Solution

The Wisconsin PureGrow Project uses Fork Farms’ indoor hydroponic systems to create a climate-resilient, pesticide-free growing environment directly within the community. By deploying Flex Acre and Flex Micro systems, the project enables year-round production of leafy greens, herbs, and vegetables in a controlled indoor setting. This approach removes dependence on outdoor growing seasons while significantly reducing water use and transportation emissions.

Key Product

Flex Acre, Flex Micro

Flex Acres

Flex Micro

10,000

Total Acre Yearly Estimated Harvest (lbs)

In communities across Wisconsin, families face impossible choices between nutrition and affordability. The Wisconsin PureGrow Project aims to change that.

Jay Shrader

Vice President of Community Impact and Social Accountability at Marshfield Clinic

UWSP at Marshfield is pleased to take an active role in continuing UW-Stevens Point’s commitment to sustainability and community-rooted partnerships. Not only does this initiative benefit our community, but it provides opportunities for agricultural training, education, and workforce development.

Tony Andrews

Campus Executive at UWSP at Marshfield.

This innovative hydroponic system is among the most efficient, scalable, and transformativefood-growing technologies in the world. It reduces water and energy use while supporting climate-resilient agriculture that isn’t affected by pests or weather.

Steve Tyink

Director of Partner Development at Fork Farms

About The Wisconsin PureGrow Project

The Wisconsin PureGrow Project is a first-of-its-kind initiative in Marshfield, Wisconsin, designed to address food insecurity, support community health, and demonstrate the power of modern indoor agriculture. The project brings together higher education, healthcare, and ag-tech to deliver fresh, locally grown produce year-round. Through a collaboration between UW–Stevens Point at Marshfield, Marshfield Clinic Health System, and Fork Farms, PureGrow leverages advanced hydroponic technology to grow nutritious food where it’s needed most.

The Challenge

At the same time, educational institutions are looking for hands-on, real-world learning environments that prepare students for careers in sustainable agriculture, food systems, and community health.

The Solution

The Wisconsin PureGrow Project uses Fork Farms’ indoor hydroponic systems to create a climate-resilient, pesticide-free growing environment directly within the community.

By deploying Flex Acre and Flex Micro systems, the project enables year-round production of leafy greens, herbs, and vegetables in a controlled indoor setting. This approach removes dependence on outdoor growing seasons while significantly reducing water use and transportation emissions.

The Results

Technology & Implementation

Indoor Hydroponic Systems: Fork Farms Flex Acre and Flex Micro
Growing Method: Soil-free, pesticide-free hydroponics
Crop Variety: Leafy greens, herbs, peppers, cucumbers, and tomatoes
Environment: Fully climate-controlled for year-round production

The systems are designed to be accessible, educational, and scalable, making them well-suited for healthcare and academic environments.

Impact

The PureGrow Project delivers meaningful, measurable impact across multiple sectors:

Healthcare: Fresh produce is provided to Marshfield Clinic for patients and staff, supporting nutrition-focused care and wellness initiatives.
Community Food Access: Harvests are distributed to local food pantries, including St. Vincent de Paul, helping combat food insecurity.
Education & Workforce Development: UW–Stevens Point at Marshfield students gain hands-on experience with modern agricultural technology, sustainability practices, and food systems innovation.
Sustainability: The project demonstrates how indoor farming can reduce environmental impact while strengthening local food systems.

Results at a Glance

Year-round access to fresh, locally grown produce
Direct support for healthcare-based nutrition initiatives
Strengthened community food security partnerships
Real-world educational opportunities tied to sustainability and ag-tech
A replicable model for healthcare and education institutions nationwide

Why It Matters

The Wisconsin PureGrow Project shows what’s possible when technology, education, and healthcare come together with a shared mission. By growing food closer to where it’s consumed, the project reimagines how communities can address food insecurity, improve health outcomes, and prepare the next generation of food system leaders.

For Fork Farms, PureGrow represents a powerful example of Food as Medicine in action and a scalable blueprint for integrating indoor agriculture into healthcare and education ecosystems across the country.

To learn more, visit forkfarms.com.