Elizabeth Agee, Nederland.

Seeds are the ultimate symbols of a well-nourished and cultivated life. They represent, and encode, the genetic content needed to survive changing weather patterns, drastic winds and rapidly changing temperatures. Their tiny shells protect years of our ancestors’ careful cultivation and selection for preferable traits. The sweetness of the apple, the resiliency of the corn stalk, the hundreds upon hundreds of stout, plump tomato varieties we have known to love in the hot summer months...these are the results of careful selection of traits by the hands of farmers, pioneers and indigenous ancestors who have come before our feet knew the Earth. It is our birthright and opportunity to continue the legacy of seed saving and trading with our fellow townsfolk! Furthermore, seed saving affords us the opportunity to take personal action towards a vibrant, abundant and healthful foodshed for the Peak to Peak region. Through seed saving, we become stewards of our food heritage and security and also backyard scientists, developing seeds that are adapted and well equipped to handle the short, and sometimes harsh, growing season with which any mountain gardener is all too familiar.

Come learn more about mountain gardening, seed saving and local gardening opportunities in Nederland at our First Annual Peak to Peak Seed Swap. We will be celebrating the conception of the High Country Seed Bank, sharing locally adapted seeds, stories and nourishing farm fare foods! All are welcome despite access to funds or seeds. See full description below.

Peak to Peak Seed Swap

Sunday March 18, 11 a.m.-4 p.m.

High Country Seed Bank 902 Klondyke Avenue Eldora, Colorado (signs will show the way!)

Come drop in for a day of free seeds, workshops and opportunities to get involved in the local gardening scene this season! Earth Hop Designs and High Country Seed Bank bring you this fun and inspiring celebration of life and growing.

Bring any locally adapted seeds that you have saved to trade. If you are new to gardening and don’t have seeds to share no worries! Free local heirloom seed bundles for everybody, compliments of Living Seed Library. Children’s gardening activities all day! Fun for the whole family.

Schedule:

11 a.m. - 1 p.m. Seed Swap and Social, Farmfare and Healthy Snacks

1-2 p.m. Mountain Garden Planning Talk with Elizabeth of Earth Hop Designs

2-3 p.m. Soil Building and Remediation Talk with Ryan Bruno of Edaphic Solutions

3 -4 p.m. Rainwater Harvesting Hands on Workshop with Avery Ellis of Aquaponic Source

Ongoing Seed bomb making for kids with Emily Lawler

Suggested donation is $10-$20. All proceeds go to the Children’s Gardening after School Program at Nederland Community Library.