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Koochiching County Farm Family

Giniw Collective

Bald Rock is not run like a typical farm. It came together as a way to reconnect with the land, with food and with the knowledge that has been passed down for generations. The goal has always been simple: to grow food in a good way, to share it with the community and to honor the traditions that have sustained local people for centuries.

The operation is currently part garden, part wild harvest, and part classroom. They raise vegetables, keep chickens and guinea fowl and gather what the land offers. This includes chokecherries, blueberries, asparagus, maple sap and wild rice from Rainy Lake. There is even a buffalo harvest each year. Most of the food goes into community food bags, delivered to families around the White Earth Reservation and nearby in Koochiching County.

Michael Bowersox takes the lead in the garden and kitchen. Tara Houska guides the overall vision and land stewardship. Christen Corcoran helps with daily work and food distribution. Josephine Houska brings energy and joy. Kent, Mary and Nicole Korpi are always willing to pitch in where needed. There have been more helpers than they can count, but each has been crucial to the bigger picture. It is not just about farming. It is about care, culture and showing up for each other.

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© 2025 Regents of the University of Minnesota. All rights reserved. The University of Minnesota is an equal opportunity educator and employer. This work is supported by the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture.