Fall Learning Circle: Walk and Talk on the Prairie

This gathering will be an opportunity for women landowners, growers, and conservation professionals to connect around their shared interest in land stewardship and to learn from one another. 

This event is hosted by Alanna Koshollek, WiWiC's SW and West Central Region Coordinator - at her own farm! The day is co-sponsored by Renewing the Countryside; Women, Food and Agriculture Network; USDA's Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Michael Fields Agricultural Institute. Lunch will be provided.

As is tradition at WiWiC events we will gather for introductions and time to hear from everyone attending to kick off our time together. After Alanna will share more about the conservation projects that have been done and are yet to come on this landscape. After a delicious lunch catered by Donna Justin of Justin Trails Resort, we will head out for a walk .25 -.5 miles roundtrip on a 2-track gravel or grass path to see the prairie and collect some seeds you can take home. Whether you are interested in prairies, knowing more about prescribed fire, woodland management, invasives species, or grass-fed beef there will be a chance to see where all these practices have touched the landscape. Also, the landscaping around the house is native and mostly edible by design. There will be a lot of time for discussion and networking. This site has about 1.5 miles of trail so if you want to take a longer hike before heading out after the programming feel free.

What To Expect:

• To network with other women in the area around shared dreams, challenges, and experiences of conservation.

• To learn about the WiWiC project and opportunities that exist for women landowners to access conservation practices

• To gather on a restored prairie, with some uneven ground and uncertain weather - dress accordingly.

• To learn, talk, laugh and connect.

Event Details:

• Event is free to attend but registration is required and space is limited.

• Women, all who identify as such, are welcome to attend – from  landowners to farmers to conservationist enthusiasts –  whatever your background, from beginners to experts! 

• Our WiWiC events follow a Learning Circle model, with ample time and a safe space for story sharing, networking and collaborative learning. We all have something to both share and learn together.

• Dress for the weather.

• Please bring a chair.

• WiWiC is a family-friendly space and you are welcome to bring your children. 

  
  

Photos are taken at WiWiC events to help amplify the work being done by Wisconsin's women land stewards, and to help promote future events. Your registration grants consent for your photo to be taken and used for these purposes. 

About Wisconsin Women in Conservation

WiWiC s a state-wide collaborative effort led by the Michael Fields Agricultural Institute in partnership with state and federal conservation agencies, local organizations, and other farm advocacy groups. WiWiC brings together Wisconsin's women landowners, farmers, farm workers, urban growers, and conservation professionals to connect and share about conservation practices, resources, and funding opportunities.

About Michael Fields Agricultural Institute

MFAI is a non-profit organization that has been cultivating resiliency through research, education, and policy work since 1984. With a broad coalition of public and private partners, The Institute supports farmers, food systems and communities in the Upper Midwest and beyond through a range of programs and initiatives. We believe agriculture can sustain both human and ecosystem health, while advancing food security, independence, and justice. Follow along on Instagram and Facebook for the latest news and events.

About Renewing the Countryside

Renewing the Countryside is a non-profit based in Minneapolis, MN, that supports just, sustainable, and vibrant communities, both urban and rural, through a variety of agricultural and food system programs and partner initiatives.