College of Menominee Nation Hosts Winter Farmers' Market in Keshena

The College of Menominee Nation's Sustainable Development Institute brought a Winter Farmers' Market to the CMN Cultural Learning Center in Keshena on Friday, March 13, running through the morning and early afternoon in a space that sits at the edge of the 235,000-acre Menominee Forest.

The SDI, which operates as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit funded through tax-exempt donations and grants, organized the event as part of its broader work to advance sustainable living in alignment with Menominee culture and values. The institute's stated purpose is "to ensure the principles of sustainability committed to by the College of Menominee Nation and integrated in our Menominee culture and values, influence the activities of our Institute, our College, our community, and our tribe."

The SDI traces its origins to the Menominee people's long tradition of sustainable forestry, which prompted tribal leaders to establish the institute as a vehicle to encourage and build upon that approach to sustainable development. Its work spans community education, applied research, outreach on sustainability practices, and collaboration across the College, the tribal community, and external partners.

The Winter Farmers' Market reflects that outreach mission in practical form, placing sustainable and local goods directly in the hands of Keshena residents. An event listing urged residents to support local vendors, though the full text of that call to action was not available.

Those interested in supporting the SDI's ongoing work can contribute by mail to the Sustainable Development Institute, PO Box 1179, Keshena, WI 54135.