On May 27, NMS team members joined volunteers from UAF and UAA for a meaningful day of planting at the UAF Matanuska Experiment Farm and Extension Center. Together, they prepared 3 community plots with Indigenous Tlingit and Haida potatoes, which will be harvested in the fall to be served at the Kotzebue Long-Term Care facility and Pioneer Homes across Alaska.
This year’s planting featured three varieties: Tlingit, Haida, and a new variety, Soria, known for its yellow flesh, high quality and disease resistance. We were able to purchase certified seed potatoes to keep the project going this year. We began with a blessing by Gee Carlson, an Alaska Native elder, preparing ourselves and the land to plant with intention and gratitude. This project helps keep heirloom potatoes alive in Alaska and offers NMS the opportunity to feed our indigenous residents a healing taste of home.
It was a gorgeous warm sunny day, spirits were high as the group rolled up their sleeves—bringing garden tools, rubber boots, and plenty of smiles. Volunteers included Melissa Chlupach from UAA, Gee, Morgean and Ogi (Timothy) Carlson, Chef Amy Foote the project Director and a stellar NMS team: Lisa Von, Thomas Mickle, Craig Billingsley, Kerith and Lulu Hawkins, Andrew Gajonera, Rizalyn Jueco, Thomas Dado (a potential TEC candidate), and Nelson from UAF Matanuska Experiment Farm and Extension Center and his team.
Thank you to all who pitched in—many hands truly made light work!
