Support ecological restoration with the
Milkweed
Economy Project
The Milkweed Mission
We are building and scaling a replicable, sustainable milkweed collection and processing system.
Creating a network that supports ecological restoration, community-based economies, and regenerative supply chains in Minnesota and beyond.
How We Will Expand Our Mission
Establishment of 3 Regional Milkweed Collection Hubs
We plan to extend our roots throughout Central, Northeast, & Southeast Minnesota.
Training & Certificate Programs for Harvesters
Visual & Digital training tools with harvesting guides. Outlining proper timing, ecological protocols, and pod handling.
Public Engagement & Awareness
We are here to promote understanding of milkweed’s ecological values, and organize community events & workshops to educate and build local support.
How to Get Involved
Be part of the infrastructure.
A key action is for us to build our network of infrastructure for receiving, drying, and temporary storage of milkweed pods. We want to equip hubs with basic processes tools and safety equipment.
Our goal in expanding is to hire and train local residents in responsible wild milkweed harvesting practices. Our annual collection goal is 2,500 pounds of milkweed pods per infrastructure hub.
Take part in community events & workshops
We provide and organize community events and workshops that education and build local support. The purpose is to promote the understanding of the milkweeds ecological value. While highlighting the economic opportunity of a regenerativee milkweed economy.
We welcome those who want to host, take part in educating, be a vendor booth, or join in on the education to connect with us.
Harvester Training & Certificate Programs
As an effort to expand knowledge and gain a broader community footprint; we deliver workshops across all hub regions. Outlining proper timing, ecological protools, and pod handling through visual & digital training tools.
At the end of the program, harvesters must pass a certification test before they can start collecting pods. The outcome allows expansion of trained members equipped to conduct regenerative & efficient harvesting.
Rochester Garden Fuel Lab
Our goal with the Fuel Lab is to help activate the biochar and settle into your soil community.
We welcome you to learn more about the background on why the soil in your community effects your local ecosystem. Along with simple action items you can make to incorporate community rich soil in your garden.
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Coming soon.
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Coming soon.
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The biochar is $10 + $2 processing fee. The biochar is made locally and can be picked up at the Rochester Farmer’s Market on Saturdays from 7 - Noon.
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Coming soon.