WEI’s North Circle Project, a program that combines research, advocacy, and education to promote sustainable organic agriculture in East Central Minnesota, has just ushered in its second phase with expanded goals and two new staff members to work on the project. North Circle aims towards supporting small family farms through new American agriculture by advancing skills and markets for organic food production and by protecting our rural way of life and a long-lasting healthy future for agricultural soil, eco-friendly farming and good food on everyone’s table.
Katie Zerwas, who came to the WEI Amador Hill Farm in May to work as a full-time farm intern, is now coordinating the North Circle Project and focusing on community outreach. She is bringing together consumers, farmers, and anyone with interest or expertise to help develop the project and spread the word. Her position is funded by AmeriCorps* VISTA. She is replacing Jo Williams, the first year coordinator of the project and fellow VISTA volunteer.
Randy Dietel, our new intern on the project, is a graduate of the University of Minnesota in applied economics, and is contributing his valuable experience in planning business operations for small farms. His internship is funded through a grant from the Center for Urban and Regional Affairs at the U of M and the Initiative Foundation.
With renewed energy and momentum, Katie is calling for volunteers to add their expertise to the program! Anyone interested in learning more about the North Circle Project or volunteering time and talents should contact Katie at northcircle@w-e-i.org or call 651-583-0705.