Gustavus Adolphus College Assistant Professor of Communication Studies Martin Lang ’95 and sophomore student Ethan Marxhausen will host a free public premiere of their new documentary on the future of Minnesota agriculture at 7 p.m. Thursday, March 11 at the Treaty Site History Center in St. Peter.The film, titled Farming Forward, brings together people from a variety of Minnesota farms to shine a light on the role of sustainability in the future of farming.
“We looked at the divergent trends in agriculture today, from the continued growth of industrial megafarms to the local food movement,” Lang said. “We asked ourselves ‘Who will be tomorrow’s farmers?’”
Farming Forward presents several possible answers, revealing the surprising diversity and vitality of Minnesota’s next crop of sustainable growers. From fourth generation farming families to freshly-minted college farmers, these dedicated people offer an inspiring glimpse into their shared passions: community, the planet, and outstanding food.
Lang and Marxhausen pursued their project with the support of Gustavus’ Presidential Faculty/Student Collaboration Grant. The film and premiere event are made possible with support from the Sustainable Farming Association of Minnesota, the St. Peter Food Cooperative, and the Nicollet County Historical Society.
The premiere event will feature a post-screening conversation with some of the film’s stars, including representatives from the St. Peter Food Cooperative. Several local farmers will also be on hand to share their own ideas and information about sustainable farming in southern Minnesota. Snacks will be provided by the St. Peter Food Co-op; the event is free and open to the public.
For more information about the film Farming Forward, contact Lang at 507-933-6899 or mlang3@gustavus.edu.
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