A harvest of research and generosity

At the University of Minnesota’s Southern Research and Outreach Center (SROC) in Waseca, the fields of horticulture aren't just a source of data—they're a source of nourishment for the community. Led by researcher Charlie Rohwer, the SROC horticulture program has yielded more than two tons of fresh produce this growing season, with an estimated 100 pounds of peas and 300+ pounds of green beans alone harvested and donated in a single month. This abundance, which would otherwise go to waste, is instead feeding local food shelves, senior care facilities, and community groups.

For Rohwer and his team, the focus is on rigorous research. "I think of what we grow mostly as data waiting to happen, not produce, because my job is to do research," said Rohwer. His work involves planting multiple rows of a crop, but only harvesting a small, precise portion for data collection. This leaves a significant amount of high quality produce untouched. Rather than seeing it plowed under, a network of community partners has been developed to ensure it gets used. "Seeing it get plowed under is disappointing," he explains. "Developing connections with people who can use larger volumes, or have time to harvest it, has been critical."

The success of the program is a testament to strong community partnerships. Much of the coordination and volunteer management is handled by Cindy Kolander, executive director of the Waseca Area Neighborhood Service Center, which includes the food shelf. She organizes volunteers from groups like the Waseca Garden Club, Grace Lutheran Church, and corporate teams such as Federated Insurance. These volunteers work in the fields to pick what's left behind, then deliver the produce to beneficiaries. This year, donations have supported the food shelves in Waseca and Janesville, teachers at a local elementary school, the Waseca Fire Department, and Colony Court Senior Living Solutions.

From kohlrabi and cantaloupe to potatoes and sweet corn, the variety of donated crops is as impressive as the sheer volume. The generosity extends even further, with seed companies donating varieties of green bean, watermelon, sweet corn, and beet seeds this year, contributing to the impressive harvest. While Rohwer is often busy with his research, his team also helps with the harvesting and deliveries. He knows that the hard work of his team and the volunteers is making a direct impact. "I understand that the produce gets used, and that's what matters to me," said Rohwer. It is these community connections that make it all possible. "If we happen to have extra produce on any given day, we can probably find a place for it because of connections we have in the community."

The SROC team is already coordinating a delivery of fresh sweet corn to a care center and plans to share pumpkins with the Waseca Intermediate School Garden Club this fall, which will sell the produce to raise money for the school's Backpack Food Program. This program demonstrates how a commitment to research and a passion for community can turn an academic endeavor into a tangible benefit for those who need it most.