Plant a seed.

It's vital to have enough food to meet our dietary needs. It’s also essential for food to sustain our natural resources and not degrade them. Food security is a growing concern nationwide, and Olmsted County is no exception. Local food system research highlights food insecurities that prevent many from meeting their dietary needs and preferences for healthy, active lifestyles. Additionally, SE Minnesota water and soils are highly susceptible to contamination and increased degradation through conventional farming practices. Data show food and agricultural practices are one of the most profound indicators of health - human and environmental. I'm passionate about the collaborative design, research and education projects I work on to promote increased food security and a greater understanding of our food system. By leading local food, clean water and soil health initiatives, future economic, environmental, and social issues can be addressed. When we enact positive change individually, community resiliency is increased.

I am a conductor that synthesizes ideas and brings sustainable projects into clear focus for implementation. Because of my capacity to build partnerships, the work I do is both broad and deep. By envisioning how various components of a system work together, I lead in both expected and unexpected ways to increase community resiliency.