Ever since I published James Godsil's wonderful tomato poem last fall, I've been on the receiving end of his e-mails. They come fast and furious, filled with ideas and enthusiasm. Godsil's current project is Sweet Water Organics in Milwaukee, a group of urban fish farmers and veggie growers, whose aim is to revolutionize commercial food production. You can visually follow the Sweet Water story with Godsil's flickr set.
SWEET WATER ORGANICS PHOTO
Now Godsil wants your old watering can. Of course, it needs to be in working condition. In fact, Godsil sent out this poetic e-request for cans, along with suggested payment options. If I lived in Milwaukee, I'd take him up on his offer:
Deviations from perfection in the workmanship of contemporary hoses
As well as in the social practice of Sweet Water workers
Has given rise to a serious hose shortage and the notion that
Perhaps watering cans might be better for life's advance than hoses!
Anybody know somebody with spare hoses and watering cans
To trade for Sweet Water Basil, Tomatoes, Raspberries, or Compost?
Sweet Water Organics is actually an attempt to take Will Allen's methods to a commercial — rather than a non-profit — level. Allen has long labored in the service of urban agriculture in Milwaukee, believing that many of the health problems of the urban poor stem from the lack of food choices, especially fresh produce.
The mission statement of Allen's organization — Growing Power, Inc. — says its role is "inspiring communities to build sustainable food systems that are equitable and ecologically sound, creating a just world, one food-secure community at a time." A great concept, but even better is the fact that Allen's talent and efforts were rewarded in 2008 with a MacArthur "genius" grant.
Come hear Will Allen talk about Growing Power and more at 6 p.m. this Thursday, Sept. 17 at the Evjue Community Room at the Goodman Community Center, 149 Waubesa St., Madison. Allen's appearance is a warm-up for next month's Wisconsin Book Festival where another "farmer-hero," Wendell Berry, will be the keynote speaker on Sunday, Oct. 11. Both events are free.
Sweet Water flickr set
Sweet Water sprouted at Will Allen's Growing Power.
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