May 2023

It seems like summer just snuck up on us with that bright sunshine and the intense heat. You all doing okay out there? One word: hydrate!

This round of the newsletter is packed full of exciting things to reveal: contest winners, opportunities for FREE TICKETS to this year's Minnesota State Fair (we love our volunteers), field day save the dates along with highlights of local farm happenings, local food opportunities and local food support!

—the team at Renewing the Countryside

April 2023

The days are getting longer, and for the first time in a long while, snow is not in the 10 day forecast. That’s good news, right!?! We're seeing photos of the first greens of the season and promotions for those CSA boxes, so if you have not already purchased yours for the year, now is the time! We've had a jam-packed month and are excited to share updates and opportunities with you. Thanks for reading!

—the team at Renewing the Countryside

March 2023

Happy spring!

Sprouting bits of green in the ground bring all the potential of a new growing season, as we wrap up winter conferences and dive into April. Check out our recent and coming attractions below.

Thanks for helping create a more robust local food system!

—the team at Renewing the Countryside

February 2023

Are you hunkered down? Here's some reading while you gather up the motivation to brave the elements and clear the snow/ice. (What was that about a mild winter?)

Also, it's that time again when we're looking for new board members! We are seeking individuals with board experience who have a passion for sustainable, vibrant and equitable rural communities and strong urban/rural partnerships. Skills or background knowledge in fundraising, organizational development, nonprofit finance, and/or human resource development is a plus.

Duties and responsibilities are outlined in the Board Member Job Description, and you can apply here.

Thanks for reading and being engaged with our work, and never fear—spring is right around the corner!

January 2023

Warm winter greetings to you, as we're alternating between hunkering down and dashing across the region for numerous conferences and gatherings; while the soil slumbers, the farmers plan!

Here's our latest, and as always, we'd love to hear any feedback you have for us. Thanks for reading and being engaged with our work, and we hope your 2023 is starting out well!

ok, ok, ok...Top 10 lists are so last decade...

Or... the 80's called they want their top 10 list back. (actually, I hear the 80's are hip with the kids now :)

But we can't help ourselves - we just have to share how we have been working to foster a more just, sustainable, and vibrant countryside. Here are just a few highlights of that work.

And just a note - we come to you with an end of year ask for donations. If you read below something that inspires you - please make a donation to help us continue to do this work.

November/December 2022

In this season of giving thanks, RTC is especially grateful for:

❤️ local farmers and entrepreneurs

❤️ our partners

❤️ our donors

❤️ our staff

❤️ our readers.

You make our work possible. Read on for updates on our recent efforts. Thank you for your support!

by Kathleen Rykhus, Americorps VISTA

Located in the Arrowhead region of Northeastern Minnesota, St. Louis County is the largest county east of the Mississippi River. Known for its spectacular natural beauty, lakes, and trout streams, the area has a history of logging and mining of iron ore. The region also has a rich tradition of farming and local food systems.

Kristine Jonas (pictured here) grew up in Tower, MN, where her father farmed. Today she is a vendor at the Tower and Virginia Farmers Markets, as well as the Food Hub Manager for the Virgina Market Square Farmers Market. She knows that the challenges being faced by people who are trying to grow the food system here are many but she also describes a spirit of community and cooperation that is helping those who are passionate about local food increase access to locally grown produce, meats, and homemade products through a variety of creative approaches.

October 2022

Here's hoping you've had a chance to enjoy the fall colors and plenty of outdoor events! We're transitioning out of field days—with a couple last ones coming up this week (see below). For many of us, the growing season has mostly wrapped up.

Maybe you had a chance to put up a few jars of pickles, tomatoes, fruit preserves or maybe time ran out?

Luckily for all of us we have the FEAST! Local Foods Marketplace to make up the difference. Come to Rochester on November 5th from 10-4 to pick up some of those pantry items for the long winter months or maybe as holiday gifts. More details below!

August 2022

Will you come celebrate local food and farm to early care with us at the Minnesota State Fair? Going on now through Labor Day, Sept. 5! Are you a local food advocate that would like to volunteer? There are a few more spots—sign up HERE.

Keep reading for field days and gatherings that serve to inform and connect, and we hope your summer is wrapping up with bountiful fresh, local food and plenty of down time to spend with community!