Join us as we embark on an inspiring journey through the origins and growth of the Midwest Elderberry Cooperative with our guest, Chris Patton. Discover how his passion for sustainable agriculture was ignited at the Moses Conference in 2011, leading him to explore the untapped potential of American elderberry as a commercial crop. Alongside experienced farmer Paul Otten, Chris formed the cooperative to cultivate and distribute elderberries, providing support to small businesses and fostering a thriving local foods movement. Through the cooperative structure, they have laid the groundwork for a sustainable and successful future for elderberry production.

Explore the challenges and triumphs of establishing American elderberry as a viable commercial crop. At the age of 62, Chris embarked on this venture with a vision to create a legacy and a team to ensure its continuity. The conversation sheds light on the legal and cooperative frameworks that support this industry and highlights the importance of market education and investment in research. With insights from key figures like Terry Durham and Mark Shepard, we uncover the unique benefits of American elderberry, and its integration into agroforestry, which offers exciting opportunities for farmers.

Finally, we discuss the future of the American elderberry industry and its potential to rival the European market. Chris shares his optimism, bolstered by the support of allied organizations and ongoing research into elderberry cultivars. We emphasize the importance of local sourcing and supporting American elderberry products, while also acknowledging the resource constraints that currently limit social media presence. The conversation rounds out with a look at the unpredictable nature of niche agriculture, including stories of sunchokes and Aronia, illustrating the dynamic landscape of agricultural ventures.

Check out the Cooperative at www.midwest-elderberry.coop

For sources, transcripts, and to read more about this subject, visit: www.agroecologies.org

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Key Words:

Elderberry, American Elderberry, Cooperative, Sustainable Agriculture, Midwest, Commercial Crop, Local Foods, Agroforestry, Market Education, Research, Niche Agriculture, Sun Chokes, Aronia, Cultivation, Sustainability, Growth, Market Demand, Social Media, Local Sourcing, Small Businesses