WETCC Community Extension hosted Mawinzowi-Gabeshiwin “Berry Camp”
WETCC Community Extension hosted Mawinzowi-Gabeshiwin “Berry Camp” on July 17th–18th. This year looked a little bit different for community attending, as the camp was set up and hosted out in the bush with the berry patches. Twenty-four (24) participants from six (6) surrounding communities joined us. The harvesting areas were scouted ahead of time by our local instructor and guide Stanton (Stan) Alexander.
Stan surveyed berry patches weeks prior to camp to track berry growth and observe community picking practices. While out in the patch, Stan shared his honorable harvesting practices, as well as showing what happens to berry patches when these respectful ways are not followed. Collaborative partner, Nicole LaFrinier (White Earth Food Sovereignty Program Coordinator), provided each participant a berry picker to use and keep, with Stan and Nicole working together to share and ensure sustainable harvesting practices.
The 2025 Mawinzowi-Gabeshiwin was made possible through Capacity grant funding from USDA/NIFA (Award #2022-47003-38383). We greatly appreciate our local partners, instructors and volunteers for assisting us in offering healthy food-based community learning activities