Day 1: Mill City Grows

     Today we visited Mill City Grows' farm for their first season on this lot. We worked mainly with the farm manager Todd and another worker Emily who were very welcoming and excited to have us helping out. Todd introduced to us his plan for the lot and described to us some of the challenges he's facing. He follows organic practices however is not certified organic because of the costs associated with it. It is interesting seeing the differences between farms not for profit and for profit. Mill City Grows is a farm run by a nonprofit organization and therefore have less investment and funds to work and expand. The people there were extremely passionate though because of the fact that they were attempting to grow food for locals who struggle to purchase it from stores. The smaller amount of funding could be seen in contrast in the land size and quality and the availability of irrigation and tools. This was also a contributing factor to them not being certified organic.

     Local animals and pests are difficult to deal with but he is building a fence and had us help prepare special covering for the crops to protect them. He still does not have an irrigation system set up so the current drought that is affecting all the farms in the area is especially hard on him. Weeds are also a major problem. With the area he is in and the dirt and practices he is using, weeds are very prevalent. Almost every week they have to weed all their beds, which was a major part of what we helped with. We also helped spread compost across beds they were planning to plant later this week. We will be returning later in the week so Todd said he wanted to show us more parts of the process and we would help with the coming steps for the beds we set up today.

     Our group came ready to work and for many this was their first introduction to actual farming. We worked hard and really got our hands dirty. Many of us agreed that one of the best feelings of the day was, while we were weeding, looking back and seeing clear crop beds and everything we had accomplished.

     Todd said he enjoys the immediate and tangible results of farming, something many of us aren't used to. Talking to everyone who normally works on the farm was eye opening and really informative for everyone. We spent most working time also introducing ourselves to and getting to know one another. It was a great first day and I think it was the perfect introduction to our trip and our group dynamic. 

- Megan Von Bargen