FISHERS — A new park opens in Fishers next Tuesday, and it is not your typical suburban park.
The Fishers AgriPark is a working farm and it offers suburban and city folks an opportunity to learn about current farming practices and the innovations needed to feed the world. And when harvest comes, the foods produced on the farm will be available to the public.
“The vision for the AgriPark is finally coming to life,” said Fishers Mayor Scott Fadness. “Connecting future generations to the roots of Fishers’ past through hands-on farming experience will not only remind us of our city’s history, but teach all residents the breadth of impact agriculture has on each of us. We look forward to sharing this exciting new park with our residents.”
The park is located at 11171 Florida Road. During August, AgriPark will be open for special open-house style evenings, which will include tours, encounters with the farm’s animals, and more. Guests will register for a spot, choosing from one of 10 grand-opening evenings, which will run from 5 to 7 p.m. each Tuesday and Thursday.
Down the road, the public will have a chance to take part in the harvesting, as several "you-pick" opportunities will be available throughout the year.
The 33-acre farm includes a tunnel-covered growing area and three-acre produce garden. The 3,000-square-foot high tunnel serves as shelter for in-ground plants like tomatoes, peppers, and more.
Surrounding fields are filled with varieties of greens, onions, potatoes, sweet corn, kohlrabi, broccoli, cauliflower, peas, and more. The public fields and gardens will be used for educational programming.
Kids will love this: AgriPark includes a five-acre animal area that is home to cows, chickens, and eventually horses, pigs, goats, and sheep.
The tree nursery currently is growing 200 trees, which were planted in a single day in April, and will be used by the city to replenish trees throughout Fishers’ parks, facilities, and roadways.
A nature trail features "kindness rocks" displaying positive messages, decorated by members of the community. The trail connects the animal and produce areas to a five-acre, open-play and event space. In the fall, the farm will feature a corn maze, pumpkin patch, and sunflower field for program and photo opportunities.
"We can’t wait to invite the community to this new space, and will have ample opportunities to volunteer, learn, discover, and be a part of something very special,” said Sarah Sandquist, Director of Fishers Parks.
There will be no charge to enter the park, and non-Fishers residents are invited to visit.
