MONTGOMERY, Ala. – The Alabama Department of Agriculture and Industries’ (ADAI) Commissioner Rick Pate and ADAI staff presented a $165,000 check to Extreme Green Farms through ADAI's Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure (RFSI) Program. Through the USDA RFSI funds, Extreme Green Farms will be able to store lettuces more efficiently and transport in a timely manner across the state, supporting both local retailers and school systems.

Extreme Green Farms, a family-owned and operated hydroponic farm in Auburn, Ala., is redefining local agriculture through innovation, sustainability and a strong commitment to Alabama communities and schools. Founded by Ralf and Missy du Toit in 2012, the farm specializes in hydroponically grown crops, a modern approach that allows them to produce vibrant, pesticide-free, consistent and flavorful products year-round. Their advanced growing systems support a wide range of crops including artisan lettuce varieties, tomatoes, cucumbers, herbs and microgreens, making them a trusted source of fresh, high-quality produce for restaurants, schools and farmers markets across the state.

“Supporting farms like Extreme Green Farms is critical to strengthening Alabama’s local food system and improving the efficiency of the supply chain,” said Commissioner Pate. “Programs like RFSI help producers expand capacity, reduce transportation challenges and keep locally grown food in Alabama schools and communities.”

Extreme Green Farms supplies fresh greens and vegetables to restaurants across Auburn, Montgomery and Columbus, Ga, and participates in farmers markets such as the Auburn City Market. The farm is also an active participant in Alabama’s Farm to School Program and Sweet Grown Alabama, helping connect students to locally grown produce and providing agricultural education. Weekly, the farm supplies over 11,000 heads of lettuce to seven school districts schools across the state.

“Thanks to this program, we are able to expand our local distribution and retail partnerships. We are proud of the work our farm does and the opportunity to support several local communities and schools,” said Extreme Green Farms owner Ralf du Toit. “The grant funds created an immediate and lasting impact for our farm and Alabama citizens.”

For more information or to purchase fresh produce directly from the farm, visit Extreme Green Farms, located at 2862 Sand Hill Road, Auburn, Alabama. The farm store is open Monday through Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.

For more information about the RFSI program visit, https://agi.alabama.gov/rfsip/ or email rfsip@agi.alabama.gov