Sustainable Foods, Farm & Gardens   

Get involved in the Michigan Bumble Bee Atlas community science program!  During this session, we will discuss bumble bee biology, diversity, and conservation in Michigan and spend time outside actively practicing data collection techniques. You will meet other bumble bee enthusiasts, improve your bumble bee ID skills, and learn bumble bee monitoring protocols.  

This class will discuss the ecological threats of invasive plant species and the importance of managing them in urban areas. This class is designed for community members who are interested in helping to manage invasives on their own property or as part of volunteer efforts. Participants will learn to identify high-priority invasive species that grow in at the edges of waterways and in other margins in urban environments, discuss appropriate management methods including knowing when to call a professional, and practice basic management techniques that are accessible to homeowners and community land stewards.

Create a culinary wreath with an assortment of herbs and botanicals grown at the Kalamazoo Valley’s Food Innovation Center in downtown Kalamazoo. Twisting natural materials into a ring-shaped form has been one of humankind’s earliest expressions. This nine-inch wreath can be displayed in the kitchen and used to season favorite dishes. 

This 10-week course empowers participants to build a small agricultural structure (<600 sq. ft.) using sustainable techniques. Through weekly hands-on sessions at SolFed Farms, students will learn to construct a straw bale, roundwood timber frame building with rubble-trench foundations, natural plasters, and hybrid clay tile/living roofs. By course end, participants will be able to: explain natural building principles, safely use traditional tools, assemble timber joinery, and evaluate design choices like insulation vs. breathability. Ideal for farmers, DIYers, and sustainability enthusiasts—no prior experience needed, just readiness to get muddy and build community! 

Location: SolFed Farms 4420 W F Ave. Kalamazoo MI 49009

Grow your seed-saving skills! You’ll learn hands-on techniques for harvesting seeds from wet-fruited crops like tomatoes and dry-fruited crops like beans. We’ll cover how to select for seeds that are especially well-adapted to your growing conditions, isolation and hand-pollination techniques for cross-pollinating plants, and cleaning and storing your seeds for maximum viability and vigo

Native plants play a necessary role in local ecosystems. You can garden for wildlife in a space of any size. Learn common native trees, grasses, and flowers, and discuss how to incorporate these plants into your gardening practices. Learn different seed germination methods and make your own kit to take home. 

Do you have a favorite shirt or pair of jeans with a hole in them, stains, or weak spot? Do you hate the idea of sending them to the landfill? Here’s your solution: transform your holey clothing into a work of slow fashion art! If you can thread a needle and sew on a button, you’ve got the skills you need. The fiber industry is one of the biggest polluters in the world- behind only the oil and gas industry. Repairing and refurbishing your clothing keeps your clothing out of the waste stream, saves you money, gives you a creative outlet, and will make you the envy of your friends. Join us in this 6 week exploration into the world of mending. We will be learning mending of socks, jeans and other pants, shirts and more types of clothing using techniques of weaving, embroidery, knitting, and more. Minimal sewing skills are required- we’ll teach you what you need to know although some familiarity is useful.

Herbs are a traditional source of nutrition and healing. Students will explore the impact of ancestral plants, sources of materia medica, ethical and sustainable foraging techniques, as well as recipes for building a home apothecary. Engage in on-campus plant walks to discuss bioregional, cultivated and seasonal plants. 

Cooling shade is increasingly valuable in our warming climate. Learn how to love your shady spaces and create a low-light oasis as home. We will highlight native and introduced plants that thrive in the shade and a variety of soil conditions. Participants will learn how to use basic design tools and draft a plan for their own outdoor areas. 

House plants have many benefits, including improving air quality, reducing stress, and adding beauty to your living environment. Learn how to select and care for house plants that are suitable for your space and time. Learn how to share your favorite plants with friends and family with various propagation techniques. Take home several cuttings to grow and enjoy.  

Herbal tea is one of the most beloved beverages around the world. In this class, you will learn about the benefits of drinking herbal teas, the art of making your own tea blends, and have an opportunity to taste a variety of herbal teas grown at the Food Innovation Center. 

This last section of the four-part series in beekeeping will look at the life of a honeybee colony as it prepares for winter. Overwintering practices will be discussed, along with fall and winter duties of the beekeeper. We will continue our examination of bee biology, and discuss other products of the hive.