Revitalizing and Sustaining The Land Lab at the The University of Minnesota Duluth

Abstract

The Land Lab needs a stable structural framework and a dependable funding model with goals embedded in UMD's educational mission. This report recenters the Land Lab's contribution to the educational mission of UMD. Our research suggests important actions for accomplishing this goal. We propose: ? creating a steering committee to provide colleges across the campus with seats at the table to guide how this space is used, and to ensure long-term sustainability; ? continuing departmental support by Geography and Philosophy through appointing a Faculty Farm Director to teach related courses and seek grants; ? funding a Farm Operations Manager as a staff position (similar to the garden manager at Glensheen); ? supporting a Faculty Educator Liaison to facilitate academic involvement and course engagement; ? solidifying CLA support by providing consistent funding each year, as well as supporting strategic planning and student engagement; ? leveraging UMN system-wide resources related to sustainable agriculture and education (i.e. MISA, Extension, Master Gardener Program); ? incorporating the Land Lab into campus planning around liberal education. Our vision will grow through engaging UMD faculty and students in courses and research projects based at the Land Lab, hosting field days for local youth, and facilitating use of Land Lab resources by more programs across the entire university. In this report we articulate the value of the UMD Land Lab, take an honest look at its shortcomings, and outline a new structure of operations and funding which we believe will enable the Land Lab to better serve the university's educational mission. We have conducted interviews with the Land Lab's many stakeholders in an attempt to evaluate pathways toward a sustainable model for this program. The Land Lab is a creative resource rooted in liberal education, research, creative activity, and public engagement. The Land Lab directly addresses multiple core values and strategic goals outlined by UMD. We know that with sufficient support, the Land Lab can build on previous success to become a keynote program that highlights UMD's commitment to creative education, sustainability, social justice, and community relations.