Student Volunteers harvest Maverick Garden
The Maverick Food Garden is in full swing to harvest its produce before winter arrives.
On Monday and Tuesday, the student-run volunteer group hosted its Harvest and Water event at MSU’s garden, located in front of the Carkoski Commons building. Students worked together to harvest many plants successfully grown over the summer.
“The garden has made remarkable progress, with the majority of plants thriving and growing to their full potential. Compared to last year, we have seen a noticeable increase in produce, which reflects the effectiveness of farming strategies, including regular watering, weeding, and natural pest control methods,” student volunteer Sarah Padoko said. “These efforts and improved soil conditions contributed to an abundant harvest.”
Although many plants have already been harvested, a few require more time to mature and will be harvested later this fall.
“We still have several crops left to harvest before winter arrives. The most significant are the melons, lettuce, radishes and sweet potatoes; they have been growing well and should be ready for harvest soon,” said Padoko. “We are also looking forward to gathering the last harvest of jalapenos, tomatoes and corn.”
After the food is harvested, it is mainly donated to the Maverick Food Pantry, which serves food-insecure students.
“After the produce is picked from the garden, it is primarily donated to the Maverick Food Pantry. The pantry is an essential resource for students to access food and other groceries,” said Padoko. “The garden’s contributions help supplement the pantry’s offerings, providing fresh vegetables and fruits unavailable in the pantry.”
The Maverick Food Garden is not all about growing and harvesting plants. It provides students with multiple benefits, such as volunteer service hours and the opportunity to sustain the environment by learning to grow their own crops.
“The Food Garden allows students to accumulate volunteer service hours, often required for academic programs and scholarships. Also, they receive hands-on gardening experience, such as learning essential skills like planting, cultivating, and harvesting crops,” said Padoko. “Additionally, volunteers get to enjoy fresh produce from the harvest, allowing them to experience the direct reward of their efforts in the garden.”
Students who volunteer regularly will become official group members and enjoy merchandise like garden-themed T-shirts.
“Students will receive fresh produce from the harvest and cool swag,” student volunteer Sai Meghana Lakku said. “Those who volunteer regularly will also become official members of the Maverick Food Garden.”
The garden is always looking for new volunteers, and it is an excellent way for students to become part of the community, learn valuable skills and make new friends.
“Students should consider volunteering because it’s a great way to gain valuable skills in sustainable gardening, connect with other students and make a positive impact by contributing to the community,” said Lakku.
If you want to volunteer or learn more about the Maverick Food Garden’s events, visit mavcentral.mnsu.edu.
Photo Caption: On Monday and Tuesday, the Maverick Food Garden hosted its Harvest and Water event at MSU’s garden, located in front of the Carkoski Commons (Nate Tilahun/The Reporter)
Write to Tina Dolan at dolatinaj@gmail.com