TCURJ Volume V
Evaluating Traditional Menominee Soil Amendments on Flint Corn Production and Soil Productivity Frank Kutka College of Menominee Nation – Sustainable Development Institute Rebecca Edler College of Menominee Nation – Sustainable Development Institute Adam Schulz College of Menominee Nation Dolly Potts University of Wisconsin – Green Bay Harlan Pygman College of Menominee Nation Francisco Arriaga University of Wisconsin – Madison Jamie Patton University of Wisconsin – Madison
The Ancient Menominee (Mamaceqtaw) were farmers, growing diverse foods on raised garden beds. Interest in reviving ancient gardening practices and pre-contact foods is increasing, as Menominee community members seek local sources of fresh, nutritious foods. This project evaluated the impact of traditional biochar and fish emulsion soil amendments, as compared to conventional fertilizer, on flint corn yields and select soil properties. Results from two growing seasons suggest biochar and fish emulsion amendments can positively alter soil fertility and productivity in the short-term. However, further research is needed to quantify long-term impacts of traditional amendments on corn yield, soil health, and sustainability. Key words: Menominee, Mamaceqtaw, Soil Health, Flint Corn, Agriculture, Biochar
Introduction The Menominee people (Mamaceqtaw) have lived in the Great Lakes region since time immemorial and have no migration story. The long-standing connection between the Menominee and the land is evidenced through the tribe’s creation story which takes place in northeastern Wisconsin. This connection is currently being viewed through archeological research on ancestral gardening techniques, because, in addition to hunting, fishing and gathering, the ancient Menominee were also active gardeners. Interest in reviving ancient gardening practices and pre-contact foods is increasing, as Menominee community members seek dependable, local sources of fresh, nutritious foods to improve local health outcomes. Therefore, identifying culturally relevant and productive gardening practices is considered imperative to increasing fresh food production and consumption on the Menominee Reservation. 15
