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Seed libraries are a fantastic resource for communities, and we're very excited to introduce our own to Schoolcraft County residents as of this spring. Much like a library for books, the general idea behind seed libraries is to allow people to "check out" seeds for planting; at the end of the growing season, seeds can then be collected from mature plants and a portion donated back to the library, creating a sustainable cycle that benefits all involved. |
Why a seed library?
For better or worse, agricultural biodiversity has plummeted over the past several decades as seed corporations prioritize genetically modified and hybridized seeds. These seeds aren't without benefits--they often result in high yields, are pest resistant, produce large fruits and vegetables, etc.--but they have also resulted in a monocultural industry that threatens the existence of heirloom varieties. In addition, unlike open-pollinated plants, the seeds from hybrid plants can't viably be replanted. Generally, these are one and done crops. By recycling open-pollinated seeds year after year, seed libraries promote agricultural diversity and help preserve plant varieties that have adapted over time to the specific conditions of their local regions.
Biodiversity and sustainability aside, we believe that everyone, no matter their level of income or farming knowledge, should have the resources and opportunity to grow their own food. Schoolcraft County is a food desert. 17.2% of residents are food insecure. 25% of residents are above the SNAP threshold of a 200% poverty level. It's important to us to lift up those members of our community who might not otherwise have access to affordable produce. Our goal is to bring food security to Schoolcraft while simultaneously fostering community engagement, education, and self-empowerment.
Donating Your Seeds
We need your help to bring this project to fruition. Are you interested in donating your open-pollinated seeds? (No hybrids or GMOs, please.) You can do so at any time by dropping them off at our office or mailing them to PO Box 250, Manistique, MI 49854. All types of vegetables, flowers, and herbs are accepted. Please be sure to fill out the below form and include it with your donation. Printed forms are available at our office. Thank you for your support!
Seed donation form
Borrowing Seeds
All residents of Schoolcraft County will be eligible to borrow seeds from our library. A catalog of our available seeds with planting instructions can be found here (physical copies can be picked up at our office). To check seeds out, just drop by our office, pick out what you want, and fill out a check-out form. We encourage you to return seeds at the end of the season, but there is no obligation to do so.
We ask that you limit your seed check-out to eight varieties total and one packet of seeds per variety. If you'd like more than that, please ask our staff; we have more of some varieties than others!
Still have questions? Feel free to call our office at (906) 286-2890 or send an email to [email protected].
Happy growing!
For better or worse, agricultural biodiversity has plummeted over the past several decades as seed corporations prioritize genetically modified and hybridized seeds. These seeds aren't without benefits--they often result in high yields, are pest resistant, produce large fruits and vegetables, etc.--but they have also resulted in a monocultural industry that threatens the existence of heirloom varieties. In addition, unlike open-pollinated plants, the seeds from hybrid plants can't viably be replanted. Generally, these are one and done crops. By recycling open-pollinated seeds year after year, seed libraries promote agricultural diversity and help preserve plant varieties that have adapted over time to the specific conditions of their local regions.
Biodiversity and sustainability aside, we believe that everyone, no matter their level of income or farming knowledge, should have the resources and opportunity to grow their own food. Schoolcraft County is a food desert. 17.2% of residents are food insecure. 25% of residents are above the SNAP threshold of a 200% poverty level. It's important to us to lift up those members of our community who might not otherwise have access to affordable produce. Our goal is to bring food security to Schoolcraft while simultaneously fostering community engagement, education, and self-empowerment.
Donating Your Seeds
We need your help to bring this project to fruition. Are you interested in donating your open-pollinated seeds? (No hybrids or GMOs, please.) You can do so at any time by dropping them off at our office or mailing them to PO Box 250, Manistique, MI 49854. All types of vegetables, flowers, and herbs are accepted. Please be sure to fill out the below form and include it with your donation. Printed forms are available at our office. Thank you for your support!
Seed donation form
Borrowing Seeds
All residents of Schoolcraft County will be eligible to borrow seeds from our library. A catalog of our available seeds with planting instructions can be found here (physical copies can be picked up at our office). To check seeds out, just drop by our office, pick out what you want, and fill out a check-out form. We encourage you to return seeds at the end of the season, but there is no obligation to do so.
We ask that you limit your seed check-out to eight varieties total and one packet of seeds per variety. If you'd like more than that, please ask our staff; we have more of some varieties than others!
Still have questions? Feel free to call our office at (906) 286-2890 or send an email to [email protected].
Happy growing!
Growing & Seed Saving Guides
A general seed saving chart detailing isolation distances and seed life can be found here.
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