Gathering Ground’s Ground School — an internship for people passionate in agriculture and conservation — is excited to announce a series of speaker sessions as part of its summer program on Washington Island.

This year’s lineup brings together five respected voices in sustainable food systems:

Ken Meter, one of the most experienced food system analysts in the U.S., brings 47 years of experience in community capacity building. His local economic analyses have supported food networks across 140 regions in 40 states, two provinces, and three tribal nations.

Dr. Francisco Arriaga, Professor and Extension State Specialist in the Department of Soil and Environmental Sciences at UW-Madison, contributes deep expertise in sustainable agriculture and soil science.

Ari Abbrescia, UW-Madison Extension, is an advocate for organic and sustainable farming practices known for her innovative, environmentally focused approach.

Dr. Tom Bryan, Teaching Faculty in the Department of Plant & Agroecosystem Sciences at UW-Madison, brings hands-on expertise in agroecology and organic farming. He is affiliated with the UW Student Organic Farm and teaches courses spanning plant pathology, plant science, and agroecology.

Luawanna Hallstrom brings decades of experience across business, government, and nonprofit sectors, with a strong background in agriculture, advocacy, immigration, and labor issues. Her leadership roles have included Past President of the National Council of Agricultural Employers, former member of the California State Board of Food and Agriculture, and National Co-chair of the Agriculture Coalition for Immigration Reform, among many others. 

Together, these speakers will lead discussions, lectures, and hands-on workshops designed to equip the next generation of ecological leaders with knowledge and real-world perspective. Ken Meter’s presentation in late July will be open to the public and Gathering Ground encourages community members to read his book Building Community Food Webs(Island Press, 2021) available to borrow at Gathering Ground library and through Fair Isle Books. 

Sign up for Gathering Ground’s newsletter for more details about Ground School and community programs, including cooking classes, community gardening, book clubs, and more.