University of Wisconsion - Eau Claire

UWEC

arrow_back

Proposal

Weeding for Healthy Strawberry Growth at Little Berry Farm

30 hours

Community partner: Little Berry Farm LLC
Supervisor: Halie Stock
Beginning date:
2025-05-01
Ending Date:
2025-05-31

Service-Learning Proposal Description

1.

Briefly describe the project and the community need to be addressed.

Answer At Little Berry Farm, keeping our strawberry fields healthy and thriving is all about working with nature—not against it. Since we don’t use any herbicides or pesticides, we rely on good old-fashioned hand-weeding to keep our berries happy and healthy. Students will help remove unwanted weeds around the strawberry plants to protect their growth, ensuring they get the sunlight, water, and nutrients they need. This is a chance to get outside, enjoy the beauty of the countryside, and make a real difference at a local, sustainable farm while supporting healthy food production for the Eau Claire community.

2.

What is the mission of the agency or organization?

Answer At Little Berry Farm, our mission is simple: grow fresh, local food in a way that’s healthy for people and the planet. We’re committed to organic, sustainable practices that care for the earth while producing delicious fruit for our community. Partnering with UW-Eau Claire’s Service Learning program gives us a chance to share our love of farming, sustainability, and good food with students who want to make a positive impact.

3.

What skills are required for this project? 

Answer No farming experience necessary—just bring a willingness to learn and get your hands dirty! Here's what will help you succeed: - Physical stamina: You’ll be kneeling, bending, and moving around the strawberry plants. - Careful attention: We need gentle hands to protect our strawberries while pulling the weeds. - Team spirit: Working together and communicating with other students and farm staff makes the work even more fun. - Love for the outdoors: You’ll be soaking up fresh air, sunshine, and the peaceful beauty of nature (maybe even spotting a butterfly or two!).

4.

What are the objectives for the student learning and service?

Answer By the end of your time with us, you'll have: - Hands-on experience with organic farming practices that protect the environment. - A deep understanding of why chemical-free farming matters—and how hand-weeding plays a vital role. - New skills in teamwork, communication, and perseverance. - A real appreciation for where your food comes from—and the hard work and care that go into growing it sustainably. - Memories of working outdoors in a beautiful setting, helping build a healthier local food system.

5.

What are the availability requirements for the student?

Answer Scheduling is flexible! Students can sign up for time slots throughout May, based on their availability and the weather. Tentative options include: - Tuesdays 2pm-6pm - Wednesdays 9am-1pm or 1pm-5pm - Thursdays 2pm-6pm - Saturday mornings or afternoons available for those who prefer weekend hours. Bonus: There will be additional opportunities in June and July for students who want to stay involved!

6.

Additional information (not required).

Answer Little Berry Farm is just a quick 10-minute drive from campus. You'll spend your service hours surrounded by fresh air, wide-open skies, and the peaceful sounds of nature—no buzzing city traffic here! This is a wonderful chance to recharge outdoors while making a real impact. Make sure to dress for the weather, bring a water bottle, and get ready for a rewarding (and fun!) experience supporting sustainable farming practices.
Center for Service-Learning • Old Library 2100 • University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire • Eau Claire WI 54702-4004
A Unit of: Advising, Retention + Career Center
Phone: 715-836-4649 • Fax: 715-836-4023
Questions/Comments: srvlearn@uwec.edu
Copyright © 2025 UW-Eau Claire and the Board of Regents of the University of Wisconsin System