Green Planet Veteran Farms is proposed as a small-scale, certified organic produce farm growing and selling oyster
mushrooms and a variety of heirloom vegetables. Air Force, having served in Operation Iraqi Freedom, in Bosnia with the Stabilization Force (SFOR) Mission and in Operation Enduring Freedom. Anderson’s military career ended in 2005 following a serious accident that resulted in the ampu
tation of a leg and a diagnosis of post-traumatic stress disorder. He plans to establish Green Planet Vets as a business that will combine his love of gardening with his desire to promote healthy eating habits and a healthier environment, while encouraging other veterans with disabilities to do the same. Mushrooms were selected as Green Planet Vets' primary crop due to the ease with which they can be grown and the relatively small space required to produce a sizeable crop. Oyster mushrooms were selected from an array of potential varieties because they are more easily produced, making them suitable for a beginning grower and because they are more commonly used than many of the more exotic varieties and thus
have a broader appeal to consumers. Mushrooms represent a high valued crop that can be produced with a minimum of time and effort, which is both compatible with Tim’s accommodation needs and will allow him time to focus on the farm’s second enterprise. Green Planet Vets will also produce a variety of organic heirloom and specialty vegetables, including carrots, squash, garlic, cauliflower, and brussels sprouts. Considerable demand exists for organic foods, including vegetables, accompanied by premium prices for unique varieties. Vegetable production will provide extra income for the farm from late spring through early fall and allow Tim to make productive use of time not devoted to mushroom production.
