Battlefield Farms MPS-A Certified

Jennifer Duffield White

Battlefield Farms, a growing operation in Rapidan, Virginia, with 45 acres under cover and 20 acres of outdoor production, has achieved an MPS-A qualification. Battlefield began participating in the program in 2010, and after great improvement, has finally achieved the A rating. The MPS-ABC sustainability certification for growers gives operations an A, B or C rating after a year of careful auditing.

“Over the past four years, we have really focused on finding ways to strengthen our weaknesses,” said Human Resources Director Julie Zeijlmaker. “We have come up with more efficient strategies and accountability. It was challenging and it took time for our organization to make the changes, but I’m proud of how far we have come and our ‘A.’”

Allan Waller, head of sales for Battlefield Farms, noted, “We are participating in the MPS program because we feel a social responsibility to provide our customers the most environmentally friendly product that can be produced by a commercial greenhouse. We began participating in MPS before chemical usage became such a hot button issue, as we recognized it was the right thing to do for our customers.” GT