By Blake Jackson
The University of Wisconsin-Parkside’s community garden saw significant growth in 2024, thanks to a grant from the Fund for Lake Michigan.
This funding helped improve stormwater management, boost biodiversity, and support food security across the campus and nearby communities.
Key enhancements included the addition of leasable plots, a compost bin, a cold frame for extending the growing season, and a fruit tree orchard.
The garden also added a Monarch Waystation-certified pollinator garden to support campus biodiversity and native species.
One of the garden’s most valuable outcomes was hands-on learning. The grant allowed the university to create paid student positions, offering opportunities in sustainable urban agriculture and environmental stewardship. Students worked directly with soil and crops while applying ecological restoration practices.
In a unique partnership, the Great Lakes Community Conservation Corps’ Ag Veteran Program joined forces with the garden. This collaboration helped military veterans receive training in agribusiness, offering skills for future careers in agriculture.
The garden achieved a record harvest in 2024, producing 2,250 pounds of fresh food. This produce was distributed to the Racine-Kenosha County Food Bank, campus events, and UW-Parkside’s Food Giveaway with the Shalom Center of Kenosha.
“We want to support growing interest in urban agriculture and foster hands-on learning in sustainable farming practices and environmental stewardship,” said Dr. Julie Kinzelman, Visiting Lecturer and garden manager.
Looking ahead, the garden will install a rainwater harvesting system for its hoophouse and experiment with cold-season growing techniques. These additions will extend food production and learning opportunities throughout the year.
Since 1968, UW-Parkside has been a regional leader in education. Located between Milwaukee and Chicago, the university provides real-world experience and career-building opportunities through programs like the community garden.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-johnbraid
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