I am excited to be a grower with the the Farm and Forest Growers Cooperative. In the fall of 2025 our young cooperative went live with Climate Smart Tree Seedlings sales, and we are so proud of the tremendous efforts that have been made by this organization. As one of 21 farmer growers, I am currently working on growing red oaks, bur oaks, yellow birch, white pines, and white cedar under the Forest Assisted Migration Project. The project is a collaboration of multiple organizations working to provide more options to help fulfill the growing need for tree seedlings for woodland and forest restoration in northeastern Minnesota. The project was also based on over 10 years of research by Julie Etterson Ph. D. with UMD focusing on growing tree seedlings that are better acclimating to the shift in our climate's growing season. Taking seeds from specific native species just south of our growing zone, these seedlings are showing greater success in longevity, leaf out and overall life span. The last four years have proven to me that it is possible to create collaborations that make a difference in local economies, climate change, and preservation of natural areas.

Please reach out if you are interested in learning more about my experience with this program, or check out more from others involved with FAMP here.