Collaborative Gardens

The College of Menominee Nation (CMN) currently has four gardens - three at the Keshena campus and one at the Green Bay campus. All gardens are cultivated using sustainable practices.

CMN Campus Garden

A half-acre plot located next to the Sustainable Development Institute in Keshena, the garden was first cultivated in 2015 and included a variety of crops including squash, green beans, sweet corn, and tomatoes. In 2016 we had our most successful growing season with over 1,350 lbs. of produce harvested and sold at the Kehtekaewak Farmers’ Market or donated to the Menominee Food Distribution center. Community members are welcome to volunteer at the garden – no experience necessary. Please inquire if interested.

Campus Garden Greenhouse

In October of 2018, the College’s Department of Continuing Education (DoCE) constructed a greenhouse on the half-acre garden plot at the Keshena campus. The greenhouse is designed to extend the growing season and to propagate starter plants for both CMN’s garden and annual seed giveaway event.

Volunteer Opportunities

Volunteers are invited to be part of supplying fresh, healthy produce to the Menominee community. Community volunteer events will be advertised throughout the summer.

Perennial Garden

A 15x30 ft. plot behind the Sustainable Development Institute in Keshena was planted with raspberries and asparagus in 2015.

Turtle Garden

A 13-plot garden in the shape of a turtle shell is located behind the Sustainable Development Institute in Keshena. Since 2013, SDI interns have conducted agricultural research projects using the small plots. The central plot is arranged in the image of a medicine wheel and contains four culturally-significant plants – sage, tobacco, cedar, and sweet grass.

Raised Bed Garden

A raised-bed garden is located at the Green Bay campus. College staff planted corn, squash, and beans in past years. To increase the soil nutrients, the campus’ compost was applied to the bed.