COALMONT, Tenn. (RFD News) — Earthworms play a critical role in agriculture by improving soil health, but they are also an important part of the fishing industry.
At Wormville USA, red earthworms are raised and shipped across the country for use as fishing bait.
Owner Bruno Durant says it takes about seven months for the worms to reach market size.
“We grow to a size that I’m going to say is about four inches long. A little bit thinner than a pencil. About the size of a pencil, but shorter. That’s the size we send them for the fishing market.”
UT Extension assists the operation with soil testing. Extension Agent Creig Kimbro says the farm has improved its soil over the years.
“Mr. Durant has done an excellent job here on the farm. Through the years, he’s been very, very efficient with his soil, and we’ve seen a lot of really good increase in the organic matter here on the farm.”
Wormville USA employs about 85 people during the peak summer fishing season and plans to expand in the coming years.
