Local Resources
What Is A Food System?
A food system is basically all of the different industries that come together and make it possible for a community to eat! Each of the below resource sections are divided by industry to make it easier to find what you’re looking for. These resources are focused specifically on Beaver Island and tie into our comprehensive research project called the I.S.L.A.N.D. Initiative.
To learn more about our community project, click the button!
Take a look around below! These resource sections are in no particular order. You can start with any one that interests you and go from there. If there’s anything that we can do to help or something specific you need for your vision, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Farmers/ Ranchers/ Foragers Resources
Your one stop spot for helpful resources that will make starting or sustaining a garden or farm on Beaver Island just a little bit easier. Click each resource title below to learn more and if you have any questions or are looking for further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly. We’re here to help you succeed!
A comprehensive guide detailing various methods to efficiently water your crops.
Financial Assistance
Looking for “seed” capital to start your farm? This link is a great place to start.
Templates that help organize your idea and turn your business dream into a reality.
Food Processing Resources
Your one stop spot for helpful information to start a cottage food business on Beaver Island! Click each resource title below to learn more and if you have any questions or are looking for further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly. We’re here for you!
Food Transport Resources
Your one stop spot for helpful information about food transportation on Beaver Island! Click each resource title below to learn more and if you have any questions or are looking for further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly. We’re happy to help!
Welke Airport is a central hub for picking up your shipped food packages and hitching a ride to the mainland!
Beaver Island Boat Co. transports large freight and volume from Spring to Fall. Ask about setting up an account!
Food Distribution Resources
Your one stop spot for Food Distribution on Beaver Island! Click each resource title below to learn more and if you have any questions or are looking for further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly. We’re happy to help!
A local staple with seasonal dinner menu, full service bar & outdoor seating.
Senior Program offering meal delivery & discount vouchers for restaurant dining.
Waste Management Resources
Your one stop spot for helpful information about waste management on Beaver Island! Click each resource title below to learn more and if you have any questions or are looking for further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly. We’re happy to help!
Participate in our new program to earn discounts on fresh, organic produce!
Local Organization Resources
Your one stop spot for helpful information about local organizations on Beaver Island! Click each resource title below to learn more and if you have any questions or are looking for further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly. We’re happy to help!
Located in the old print shop and dedicated to preserving our island’s unique heritage.
A comprehensive medical space offering dental, health and wellness care for island residents and families.
An educational organization with deep roots in fostering ecological awareness and sustainability initiatives.
Learning how to write grant proposals is an invaluable skill. Here is an excellent guide on how to get started.
While grants are the leading resource for non-profit funding, there are numerous other ways to keep your mission alive!
Help guide for getting started with your own non-profit organization. Strategic planning, development and execution.
Local Government Resources
Your one stop spot for helpful information about local government on Beaver Island! Click each resource title below to learn more and if you have any questions or are looking for further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly. We’re happy to help!
The Northern most point of our island consists of St. James Township. Essentially the “city”.
The Southern three-quarters of our island is Peaine Township. It’s where our farm is located!
Learn more about our local government’s master plan for the future of Beaver Island.
Our local economy cannot fulfill the food needs of residents, thus we must import. Learn how our community can become more self-reliant by restoring farming as an industry.
As a remote island, utilities can certainly be a challenge. With proper planning and a united front, we can generate a cost-effective renewable energy plan. Click here for an actionable real-world roadmap to move forward.
Get to know your local officials and let your voice be heard! Attend meetings, stay in the loop and click here for a comprehensive list of both township’s board members and trustees.
Natural Resources
Your one stop spot for helpful information about Natural Resources on Beaver Island! Click each resource title below to learn more and if you have any questions or are looking for further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly. We’re happy to help!
Learn how to safely and securely preserve your garden/farm crops to eat like a king or queen all year long!
It’s no secret, our island’s soil is really just sand and it’s something terrible to try and grow food in. Learn about using nature’s FREE resources to boost those granules into thriving, fluffy black gold!
Producing food using renewable resources doesn’t have to be rocket science! Here is a helpful guide with simple tips to convert your home or business into a more energy efficient space.
One of the single most threatening aspects of living on an island are invasive species. It is vital for the protection and preservation of our ecosystems to know what to look for and how to safely get rid of them.
A comprehensive resource guide for Michigan landowners on how to manage wildlife on your property.
Interested in learning how to forage? Check out this massive help guide with pictures of what to look for!
Community Resources
Your one stop spot for helpful information about our local Beaver Island community! Click each resource title below to learn more and if you have any questions or are looking for further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly. We’re happy to help!
One of the most integrated resources we have on the island is BIC Center. Check out their website to learn more!
Our local school provides in-depth education and training to prepare students for adulthood.
Businesses and working professionals unite to expand the local economy and overall well being of Beaver Island.
No matter the season, hiking trails are a great way to explore our island. Check out this guide with all of the trail maps and get out there to explore!
Chock full of books, reading nooks, color printing services, botanical garden and even a seed library!
Education Resources
Your one stop spot for helpful Education information in our local Beaver Island community! Click each resource title below to learn more and if you have any questions or are looking for further assistance, please don’t hesitate to contact us directly. We’re happy to help!
What exactly is regenerative farming? And how can it help our island produce more food?! Get the 411 by clicking this link.
Central Michigan University hosts classrooms and research programs at their dedicated facility to study the pristine ecology and biology of our island.
If you’re new to the island, a seasonal traveler or just someone curious about our home, click this resource to view the annual visitor’s guide.
Supervised Agricultural Exercises are an upcoming resource that our farm will be engaging in to help local students learn more about real world agriculture using a living demonstration garden!
Student Internships
One of the ways that we can give back to our community is by inspiring the next generation to join in sustainable farming! Student Internship Opportunities are coming soon.
Employment
Our burgeoning microgreens sector is buzzing with activity! We aim to expand employment opportunities for any local resident looking for supplemental income during the Winter season.
Check back soon!