Amidst the continuous spreading of the Twin Cities suburbs, Gary and Annette Gilbertson of Scandia play an important role in preserving rural Minnesotan life. Family history surrounds their land, as Gary was born across the road from their current home, on a farm that was also the birthplace of his mother and grandmother. Sixteen years ago, they bought some nearby property and started Gilbertson Farms, where they now grow sweet corn, vegetables, and flowers that are sold to markets almost every day of the week. Their son Mark finished studying agronomy and now works on the land that has been in the family for generations.
"We're here because we love the land," explains Annette. Annette and Gary are constantly learning new techniques for their farm, and currently employ crop rotation, minimum tillage, drip irrigation, and green manure as sustainable ways to increase economic viability and improve their yield. Some techniques are less conventional than others. In order to handle deer, for example, they simply plant less expensive crops and let them eat as they will. Their variety of efforts has resulted in loyal customers. As Annette says, "People are coming to us at the markets, looking for us. People have come to know who we are."
Committed to sharing their heritage and knowledge of the land, the Gilbertsons employ local high school and college students, give farm tours, answer questions, and give recipes that teach customers how to preserve fresh Minnesota vegetables for the winter. As Gary explains, "This isn't a farming community anymore. The good land is in the houses." They are both concerned about the general lack of knowledge of local agriculture. For them, Food Alliance Midwest represents a part of that process. "We hope that it's something people will recognize," says Gary. "You'll know it's quality food." Annette agrees, "I want to be able to put that seal on my food and let people know what it stands for."
