Produce farmers Untiedt’s, the farm that provides produce, eats and more for the CSA operated by InFit and several vegetable and fruit stands in the area, was decimated by a hailstorm Wednesday, Sept. 3 as severe weather made its way through the area.
According to multiple media reports, Untiedt’s owner and operator, Paul Nelson, said the farm’s pumpkin crop will be lucky to survive. Apples, which were just beginning to be harvested, were hit by the silver-dollar-sized hail and destroyed. And many beans, late season squash and other vegetable plants were shredded by the passing storm.
WATCH: WCCO Reports from Untied Farm after storm rips through fields
It all went down in less than 20 minutes, Nelson said. Sheets of rain fell about 10 a.m. followed by “lots of hail” that left about 2 inches of white ice chunks on the ground, most about ¾ inches in size, Nelson told the Star Tribune.
Since starting its CSA in 2010, Untiedt’s has seen phenomenal growth as the demand for fresh and local produce has continued to grow. Partnering with inFIT this year offered a convenient pickup location, which will make this CSA accessible for more consumers, spokesperson Colleen Quiram stated to NWCToday.
The CSA was set to run for 17 weeks, beginning mid-June. The farm released this statement on Friday, Sept. 5:
CSA Members do not fret, we plan for risk management so we have plenty of other crops to send your way for the remainder of the season!
Again, thank you all for your kind words! Everyone here at Untiedt’s is truly grateful for the opportunity to grow for you
Untiedt’s grows over 50 different crops that are included in the CSA throughout the season.
For additional informationi Untiedts website, or call 763-658-4672.
