Being the end of October in Northern MN, our permaculture garden season is winding down.  So now we begin another phase.  We are reflecting on our progress and planning for the spring season.  The big update is that Kim and Monica have decided to be strippers.  Sod strippers that is.  We are going to rent a sod stripper as early as possible in the spring.  By using a sod stripper we will not have to use as much rock and the ground disruption will be reduced.  Overall it should save both time and money with a nicer result. The trail will be about 1/4 mile loop with the possibility of expansion.  Brad Scott has agreed to haul the rock for the trail base with the bobcat.  Seppi Bros Concrete has generously donated some of the rock.  Craig  has agreed to haul sod.  We could use 2-3 more people on that big work day which will be announced in April or May-hoping for April of course.  We also need some digging, mostly grass removal for a new planting area by the fence, which can be done anytime.  We will even provide a shovel,  just let us know you are willing and we will show you the area.

Also in this phase we will be deciding on plants and ordering as needed.  We also need to secure furniture before our grant expires.  The carpentry and welding programs have said they will get some students involved, and we can buy materials and they will do the labor.  That will be so cool to have benches, or maybe something else, made by our own Mesabi students.

It's still nice out, at least as I write this, so try to take a moment to enjoy outdoor Mesabi on the pad overlooking the pond.  If you would like to donate a tree, perennial, or "furniture",  you could even do it as a dedication or memorial, let Kim know by January so we can include it in our ordering plan.  Thanks again for your support.