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by Annie Cunningham

In an effort to promote agriculture, Franklin County Farm Bureau asks a member each year to host a distinguished professional on his or her farm. Because more and more women are becoming involved in agriculture, this year Lisa Schacht hosted Ohio State University President Karen Holbrook on the family farm within Columbus’ city limits.

The Schachts run a farm market and raise a plethora of fruits and vegetables – some available for pick-your-own. Holbrook was treated to a wagon ride between the crop rows, and Schacht explained what they grow, the ongoing research they implement to produce bigger and better plants and what it takes to be successful. Holbrook was surprised to know that growing tomatoes on red plastic, watermelons on green plastic and giant pumpkins on silver can help produce better and healthier fruit.

One of Schacht’s many responsibilities is to manage the workforce on the farm and in the market. That demonstrated to Holbrook that there is a lot more to Schacht’s "job" than having a green thumb.

Holbrook questioned Schacht about any problems the farm faces operating within the city limits. Schacht said for the most part it’s a blessing, because it draws people into the market, and there are many patrons who like the fact they don’t have to travel too far to pick their own strawberries.

Included in the Schacht’s farm are two OSU research plots. Holbrook said the agricultural research done by OSU is critical to the farming community.

Further, Holbrook said Ohio Farm Bureau is important to OSU. "The relationship between Ohio Farm Bureau and Ohio State University is absolutely essential; not only for advocacy but financially as well," Holbrook said. "The generous donations from Ohio Farm Bureau members and the organization for the new 4-H center is a perfect example of why that relationship is so important."

Holbrook said the time on Schacht’s farm was a breath of fresh air and that she was impressed by what she saw. "This is an amazing farm, and the knowledge Lisa and her family has is priceless."

CAPTION: Lisa Schacht, left, shares a bushel of goodies with Karen Holbrook, president of Ohio State University. Holbrook spent an afternoon learning the ins and outs of the Schacht Farm in Franklin County. Photo by Annie Cunningham