Trowel and Error Farm

Farm Beginnings

Carly Andrews was inspired to start farming after attending The University of Vermont, and learning about the local foods movement. After seeing a panel of all women farmers in her undergrad, she decided to try it out for herself.

She worked on a farm in Vermont, then California, and eventually found herself working at Echollective  Farm in Mechanicsville, Iowa, before gaining access to land through Johnson County’s Land Access Program (LAP). 

“I really felt like, okay, I can find my community here in Iowa. We’re so lucky to have so many dope farmers in Iowa.” 

The Historic Poor Farm

Built in 1855, the Johnson County Historic Poor Farm was a 160-acre working farm owned by the county that housed and supported low-wealth individuals, the elderly, immigrants, widows, orphans, and people with disabilities before federal social services existed. Residents worked the farm, producing food for themselves and the community, until 1988. 

Today, the Poor Farm is a community space focused on food production, historic preservation, accessibility, natural areas, education, and support new farmers. 

“I feel very lucky to have this piece of land that I get to work on. Land access is such a challenge for beginning farmers, so I feel very grateful to have this. I think there needs to be more initiatives like this, to use public land for sustainable agriculture.” 

Environmentally friendly farming

Carly is passionate about soil health, environmental impact, and extending the growing season into the winter. 

“I’m always looking for ways to produce in the winter without increasing fossil fuel use... So how can we do that? Can we use storage crops? Forcing chicories is a really cool way to do that.” 

She supports long-term sustainability through cover crops, crop rotation, composting, and organic practices. Carly grows plant starters in caterpillar tunnels, helping her harvest spring crops like radishes, lettuce, and kale by May. 

Quick hoops also extend her season, protecting greens into December and allowing overwintered crops like carrots to be harvested in early spring. By growing storage crops like cabbage, squash, and onions, Trowel & Error offers local produce into winter and eventually plans to add a root cellar to expand winter offerings.  

“I love getting to be outside all day. I thrive in the chaos, and needing to make quick decisions. I’m someone who is very in my head, so being able to do something physical gets me out of my head.” 

Committed to food accessibility, Carly also provides multiple ways to access her produce, including SNAP, FMNP, WIC, and working membership options. 

In the future, Trowel & Error looks forward to moving to a bigger farm (still in Johnson County!) and adding more employees to the team.

You can find Trowel & Error’s salad greens, carrots, root vegetables, and more at the co-op, and their produce on the menu at various restaurants around town including The Webster and Paper Crane!