Wines, Vines, and the Fruit that Bring Us Forth

This is a picture of a grape vineyard at the Eco Learning Center a place where natural balance and living sustainably are challenges that are welcomed and pursued. The Eco Learning Center is referred to by Ndibendaagwaz an Odawa word meaning "we belong to the Earth." The vineyard over looks Grand Traverse Bay in Leelanau where there are many other vineyards and farms. The region is ideal for many growing conditions and produces high quality fruits. Although the landscape is developing urban sprawl at an alarming rate. Farm land needs to be preserved here. Citizens need to take to the earth in gardening homesteads and engaging with neighbors in bioregional trade. The regions history and ability producing fine hand crafted goods are extensive. Keeping the traditions and knowledge of plants, animals, and peoples circulating is vitally important. Languages are being lost. Skills are fading. Handcrafted cheeses, wines, baked goods, grains, beers, wood products, fabrics, and cooking are rich in the Northern Michigan landscape. All we need do is listen. The trees will teach you as they learned from the wind in the air and the microbes in the soil. We must protect, cherish, and serve our landscape. We must find a natural balance.