Ziibimijwang Farm needs support to improve its egg production and storage processes. Currently, we rely on refrigerated vehicles, which are unreliable and risks food quality. A walk-in cooler would provide stable, efficient storage for produce and eggs. Financial backing and help with organizing tools, converting the shipping container, and purchasing egg-processing equipment will streamline operations, enhance distribution, and support growth.

This project will provide the reliable infrastructure needed for sustainable operations at Ziibimijwang Farm. A walk-in cooler will ensure proper storage for eggs and produce, allowing us to distribute eggs to local stores. This expansion will create a steady income stream, helping fund continued growth and strategic planning.

Long-term, these changes will support the farm’s economic stability and create job opportunities. By reaching new markets, we can foster financial sustainability and strengthen our position as a key contributor to the local food network and community.

This project will provide Ziibimijwang Farm with the infrastructure needed for sustainable, long-term success. A walk-in cooler will enable proper storage and allow for expanded egg distribution to local stores, creating a steady income stream for future growth. These enhancements will support economic stability, create job opportunities, and strengthen the farm’s role as a key contributor to the local food network and community.

To enhance egg production and storage, we plan to purchase essential equipment that will streamline our processes. This includes an egg washer and an egg basket, which will make cleaning eggs more efficient. Cleaned eggs need to be refrigerated since washing removes their natural protective coating. We also plan to acquire an egg candler to check the quality of eggs by examining their interior, ensuring we only distribute high-quality eggs. An incubator will be added to support sustainable egg production by facilitating the hatching process.

Additionally, funds will be used to convert one of our existing shipping containers into a walk-in cooler. This will provide a reliable, temperature-controlled space for storing both produce and eggs. These purchases and improvements will bolster our ability to effectively distribute food, expanding our reach to local stores and supporting the farm’s long-term sustainability.

Leadership Little Traverse’s service period is from November 2024 to May 2025.

Leadership Little Traverse is a 9-month professional leadership program with a mission to inspire and prepare civic leaders in the Little Traverse Bay Region to take action and better our community. The most recent cohort to complete the program in May of 2024 brings the total alumni to 336 and was the 23rd class to complete the program. The current cohort is the class of 2025, and is notably the Best Class Ever. LLT is a program hosted by the Petoskey Regional and Harbor Springs Area Chambers of Commerce.