From reports

Area residents can connect with fellow gardeners and plant enthusiasts at Merry Lea Environmental Learning Center of Goshen College’s fourth annual Michiana Regional Seed Swap this winter.
This networking and educational event is for residents in the region to exchange and learn about seeds. Participants can trade or acquire seeds, learn about seed saving techniques and gardening practices, browse resource tables and vendors, and connect with other gardeners.
This is a free event open to the public. It will take place on Saturday, January 15, 2022 from 10 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., at Goshen College Church Chapel (1700 S. Main Street, Goshen, IN 46526).
Everyone is welcome: from first-time gardeners to experienced growers, including children and families. Participants will include home gardeners, community gardening organizers, small-scale growers and those interested in local food systems.
“A seed swap supports the biodiversity of crops grown in our region. Exchanging seeds helps us to create a ‘living seed bank’ of vegetables, grains, flowers and herbs that are regionally adapted to our area,” said John Sherck, a local seed grower and swap contributor.
Throughout the event, there will be educational sessions for participants to attend. Topics will vary, but among the speakers will be Dani Tippman, a Myaamia Native American descended from Takumwah and Chief Richardville, and a citizen of the Miami Tribe of Oklahoma. Tippman will explore seed rematriation by discussing Myaamia planting practices and relationships with plants and food through traditional and historical Myaamia stories.
More information about the educational sessions and event details can be found on our website at www.goshen.edu/merrylea/seedswap.
Participants are welcome to stay for the entire duration of Saturday’s events or drop in. Herb, vegetable and flower seeds will be available through sales, trades, and for free thanks to generous donations. Participants are not required to bring seeds to the event but are encouraged to do so if they have them.
Merry Lea cares about the safety of our guests and staff, and seeks to protect our youngest learners. In following Goshen College policy, we ask all participants, including children ages 3 and older, to join Merry Lea staff in wearing face masks for the duration of the event.
Merry Lea is located just south of Wolf Lake, Ind., halfway between Goshen and Fort Wayne. Directions and updates are available at goshen.edu/merrylea or the Merry Lea Facebook page. For questions regarding Merry Lea’s hours or new developments, contact merrylea@goshen.edu or (260) 799-5869.