Do The Right Thing: Ophelia’s Blue Vine Farm plants real food within a historic (and overlooked) KC community

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O phelia’s Blue Vine Farm , in the heart of Kansas City’s historic Vine Street, isn’t just a farm — it’s a labor of love, Mike Rollen said, describing a tribute to Black history, and a beacon of sustainability in the middle of a food desert.

Founded by Rollen as a tribute to his grandmother, Ophelia, the business expresses a mission to reconnect people with the fresh, wholesome food he grew up eating during summers in St. Louis.

“She’s our inspiration for everything we do here,” he said of his grandmother.

At a market from noon to 7 p.m. on Saturdays, Ophelia’s sells such fruits as peaches and watermelons, vegetables like okra and tomatoes, and herbs like apple mint for tea.

“A whole generation grew up just knowing fake food. This is real food,” Rollen said. “This is what it should taste like.”

Click here to learn more about the July 25 Do The Right Thing pitch competition.

Green growing

At Ophelia’s Blue Vine Farm, sustainability starts with innovation. Rollen’s use of biofuels, derived from wood pellets and grain from Vine Street Brewing Co ., not only reduces waste but also cuts costs, he said, making the farm a model of eco-friendly efficiency.

The farm’s greenhouse and irrigation system use rainwater collected in 1,500-gallon tanks to nourish the crops.

“This water, free of chemicals, is better for our plants and the environment,” said Rollen, showcasing another eco-friendly initiative that underscores the farm’s dedication to sustainability.

Ophelia’s also partners with local businesses, community centers, and schools like Lee Summit School System for food sales through The KC Food Hub , and offers workshops on sustainable farming, fresh food benefits, and urban agriculture techniques.

“We have videos on YouTube where you can see me planting and harvesting,” said Rollen. “It’s all about giving people the experience and knowledge to do it themselves.”

His commitment to seed saving ensures a sustainable future for Ophelia’s Blue Vine Farm, he said.

“We’ll never have to buy seeds again,” Rollen explained. “Each year just gets better and better. That’s sustainability — using what you have and improving upon it.”

Revitalizing Vine Street

The location of Ophelia’s Blue Vine Farm on Vine Street holds deep personal and historical significance for Rollen, he said, noting, “Vine Street represents Black history, Black culture, and the resilience of our community. It’s where legends like Miles Davis and Buck O’Neil once visited.”

His passion for revitalizing Vine Street goes beyond just farming; since the area is a food desert, Rollen wanted to plant his roots where fresh food was needed, he said.

When he started, the farm was just a lot with contaminated soil.

“Everyone told me to give up, but I saw the potential. We spent years and thousands of dollars bringing life back to this soil,” said Rollen. “This farm is a testament to the rich history and enduring spirit of Vine Street.”

Power of community

Community is key at Ophelia’s Blue Vine Farm. Rollen’s approach — engaging and forming relationships with locals, picking up trash, and creating a welcoming environment — has built strong support and reduced theft and vandalism.

“People know we’re here for them,” he said. “We grow what they want — cantaloupes, watermelons, fresh herbs — and we sell it at affordable prices.”

Rollen is currently working on extending his infrastructure so the marketplace can be a year-round operation. He also hopes to expand his market to allow people to order produce online.

Ophelia’s Blue Vine Farm is more than growing food, it’s about creating healthier and happier lives, said Rollen.

“It’s a great responsibility to be able to serve the community,” he said. “Everytime someone drives by they honk. I think it’s because I believe really hard work pays off.”

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