SALT LAKE CITY — THRYV Institute and TC Alliance Foundation distributed more than 2,500 soil-enhancing amendment kits during an 11-day run at the Utah State Fair, expanding a community agriculture initiative focused on improving soil quality and supporting the production of nutrient-dense food.
The Utah State Fair represented the largest single event so far for the program, which has distributed more than 6,000 free soil kits this season at more than 20 farmers markets, fairs and community gatherings across the state.
“Our mission is simple. We want to help families thrive. That starts in the soil, because healthier soil grows more nutritious food, and more nutritious food builds healthier families. Everything else we do grows out of that,” said Aaron Peterson, THRYV Institute.
Soil Kits Designed for a Full Growing Season
Each soil amendment kit is designed to treat approximately 200 square feet for an entire growing season. The system uses a four-step process intended to improve growing conditions and support garden productivity.
The process begins with a dry mineral blend containing calcium, fish hydrolysate and 84 minerals that is spread across the soil. Beneficial microorganisms are then applied during planting, followed by a foliar spray used throughout the growing season until harvest.
According to the organizations, the minerals used in the kits are sourced from ancient Lake Bonneville marine deposits and Great Salt Lake brine.
The program is designed in part to improve the soil’s ability to retain water, an important consideration for gardeners in Utah, where water conservation remains a significant issue. Organizers also say the approach is intended to help growers produce more nutrient-dense fruits and vegetables.
Beyond distributing the products, representatives used the State Fair to speak directly with gardeners about their experiences growing and sharing food in their communities.
“I loved talking with the people who took kits. They showed me pictures of their gardens and told me how they share the food with neighbors and family. One gentleman told me he loved the work we do and said, ‘May Gaia bless your mission,’” said Kalene Schofield, market ambassador.
Distribution Expands Across Utah Communities
The initiative has reached communities along the Wasatch Front, with kits distributed at markets stretching from Payson north to Ogden.
About 500 kits have also been delivered to Native American community summits through the TC Alliance Foundation’s continuing land restoration work with Indigenous nations.
Recipients are encouraged to register their kits with THRYV Institute. Registration provides access to step-by-step application instructions and growing guidance designed to help participants use the soil amendments throughout the season.
Registered growers can also submit photographs of their gardens for opportunities to receive monthly prizes. During the Utah State Fair, people who registered their kits on site were entered into daily giveaways.
The registration process also introduces participants to THRYV Institute’s broader agricultural programs, including opportunities for gardeners interested in developing commercial farming or market-garden operations.
THRYV Certification Offers Pathway for Commercial Growers
For growers seeking to expand beyond home gardening, THRYV Institute offers an eight-week THRYV Certification program covering soil health, crop planning and the business side of agricultural production.
Certified growers can gain access to potential sales channels for their produce, including farmers markets, community-supported agriculture programs and partner juicing facilities.
The certification initiative is intended to create a pathway from small-scale gardening to commercial food production while maintaining the organization’s focus on soil quality and nutrient-dense crops.
The soil-kit distribution program will continue at farmers markets across the Wasatch Front through October. Eight events are already scheduled for the month, followed by plans for indoor winter markets beginning in November.
Organizers are also preparing for a larger rollout during the spring and summer of 2027, building on the thousands of kits distributed during the current season and the participation generated through community events across Utah.
