Western

Welcome to the Western Chapter

Information: western@sfa-mn.org or 1.844.922.5573 Ext. 710.

Upcoming Events

March Monthly Meeting

Tuesday, March 5
6:30-8:00 PM
OMG Offices, Ortonville

The meeting will begin with an update from Western Chapter delegate Peter Schwagerl from his recent trip to the state SFA board meeting. This will give the chapter important information about all of the great things going on at the state organization, their vision for the future of SFA, and also allow us to hear about what other chapters across the state are up to. This update can hopefully lead to some fun discussion and brainstorming among the Western chapter about what our priorities are for the year and how we can better interact with the state staff and other chapters to accomplish those goals.

There will also be plenty of time for socializing and farm updates from everyone. Some snacks will be provided, but members are welcome to bring a snack to share if they want and are encouraged to bring beverages of their choice.

Registration: No RSVP required but is appreciated.

Info: Please call or email Peter if there are any questions: western@sfa-mn.org.

Address: OMG Offices - 25 2nd Street NW Ortonville, MN 56278

 

Monthly Meetings are typically held on the 1st Tuesday of the Month, 7:30 p.m. on Zoom.

SFA Western Chapter

Become a Member

Renew or start your membership below.
Be sure to select "Western" as your chapter on the membership form.

Dozens Learn Benefits, Practices at Kernza Field Day

By Kylie Toso • SFA Western Chapter Intern

In Madison, Minn., the SFA Western chapter along with the U. of M. Regional Sustainable Development Partnerships, Forever Green, Green Lands Blue Waters and Land Stewardship Project co-sponsored an afternoon Kernza field day of Carmen Fernholz's plots at A-Frame Farm.

The day began with a brief background of Kernza (a domesticated perennial grain) soon after a group of 50-60 attendees drove about a mile away to the Kernza plot. Presenters from Forever Green spoke about how Kernza is planted and harvested as well as the future of Kernza research.

After the tour of the plot, the attendees returned to the farm for more discussion and demonstrations about Kernza: management practices, organic production, use in grazing systems, marketing opportunities, and more. After a long day in the sun, everyone enjoyed several Kernza products such as a Kernza beer.

Chapter Board of Directors

    • Richard Handeen, Co-President, Montevideo
    • Peter Schwagerl, Co-President, Chapter Delegate, Browns Valley
    • Andrew VanDerPol, Kerkhoven
    • Glenn Gelhar, Clarkfield
    • Brian Boettcher, Montevideo
    • Les Olson, Treasurer, Correll