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Photos courtesy of Native Wise
Harvested with Heart:
How Native Wise Honors and Shares Minnesota's Wild Rice Traditions
Wild rice is more than just a delicious grain for many Minnesotans. For harvesters like David Wise of Native Wise, it’s a way of life. Having lived most of his life on the Fond du Lac Reservation where wild rice plants grow in abundance, it is an essential link to his heritage, community, and the natural world.
As a Minnesota Grown member, David is passionate about introducing this delicious grain to everyone and passing on the knowledge and traditions that make it so special.
Check out our latest blog post to learn about Minnesota wild rice through David’s eyes – its cultural significance, what makes it unique, and his thoughtful process behind harvesting and sharing it.
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Photo courtesy of Prairie Drifter Farm
Commit to Local with a CSA Share: a Fresh Way to Connect to a Farm
A Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) membership is a great way to enjoy fresh, local produce while supporting local farmers. By purchasing a share now, you receive regular deliveries of seasonal food through the harvest season. Think of it like a subscription connecting you directly to the farm! Signing up for a CSA means you’ll get high-quality, fresh food with the added benefit of knowing exactly where it’s coming from.
While most CSA shares focus on fruits and vegetables, you can also find meat, cheese, flowers, eggs, honey, and more from local producers. Our map of CSAs includes pickup sites so you can find one that is convenient for you.
This is National CSA Week so it's a perfect time to sign up!
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Photo courtesy of Sutton Ridge Farm
Stay Warm with Local Wool and Fiber
Did you know that many Minnesota farmers raise animals like sheep, alpacas, llamas, and even yaks, producing a wide range of luxurious fibers? Whether you're an avid crafter or looking to add warmth to your winter wardrobe, incorporating local animal fibers like wool, mohair, and alpaca is a great way to support Minnesota farmers!
These fibers are not only incredibly comfortable and durable, they’re also sustainable, making them perfect for everything from cozy hats and scarves to bedding and boot-liners. By choosing local fibers, you’re supporting the state's farmers and opting for long-lasting, high-quality pieces for yourself and your family.
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Photos courtesy of Schyma's Pickles & Preserves
From Garden to Market: Schyma's Pickles & Preserves
For this family business, everything began in 2006 with a postcard announcing a new Monticello Farmers’ Market. "At the time, we had a large garden with more produce than we could eat or can, so it felt like a great opportunity to sell the extras," Chris Schyma recalls. Along with their fresh veggies, they brought homemade strawberry jam and dill pickles, which were a hit!
For Schyma's Pickles & Preserves, it's not just about selling products—it’s about the deep connections they've made with customers and fellow farmers' market vendors, many of whom have become like extended family. Search the Minnesota Grown directory to look for a Winter Farmers' Market in your area.
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