On Thursday, October 12, 2017, from 5 to 8 p.m., Main Street Project and MN350 are teaming up to present “Let’s Talk: Regenerative Farming and the Climate!” The event will be held at Main Street Project’s demonstration farm (4909 315th Street, Northfield, MN 55057) and will feature a tour, a potluck dinner and a conversation about how the organization’s highly efficient poultry-centered regenerative agriculture system is putting climate justice into action by revitalizing soil and sequestering carbon.
Niel Ritchie, CEO of Main Street Project, said, “We’re thrilled to partner with MN350 on this event. Excitement around Main Street Project’s approach to farming and its positive impacts on the environment, community, and people who own and farm the land continues to build regionally, nationally and globally. We look forward to sharing behind-the-scenes details of our proven approach.”
For more than a decade, Main Street Project has been working to create new possibilities for marginalized and underemployed community members. Its poultry-centered regenerative agriculture system is designed to do just that and has significant social, economic and ecological benefits.
The demonstration farm, the site for the October 12 event, exists to promote research and development of the system. The goals of this model are to maintain a naturally efficient balance of energy flow where farm inputs are in balance with farm outputs, water is protected, soil is regenerated and ecosystem health is restored. When these conditions are met, the well-being of participants and the growth of economic resources for families and communities can begin to be measured in earnest.
Currently, the system is designed so that chickens range in paddocks designed to mimic their natural habitat. The poultry provide meat, eggs and natural fertilizer. Hazelnuts and elderberries are planted inside and outside the paddock to provide perennial cover for the birds and cash crops for the farmer. Edible annual crops like beans and garlic are planted outside of the paddocks between the rows of perennials.
Similarly, MN350 is committed to inspiring Minnesotans to rise to the challenge of the climate crisis, creating a new sense of urgency and possibility for the planet. Its partnership with Main Street Project is intended to explore how supporting regenerative farming can help stop carbon pollution while producing delicious food and providing a livelihood for community members.
To RSVP for this event, please visit the MN350 website or email Brian@MN350.org.
Join & Share the Facebook event here.