By Scout Nelson
The University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener Program and volunteer Brenda Langerud, whose work in community gardening, food donations, and food preservation supports local food security initiatives.
Master Gardener volunteers across Minnesota are helping improve food security by growing, donating, and preserving fresh produce for local communities. In 2025, volunteers donated more than 63,000 pounds of fruits and vegetables to food shelves, with strong participation continuing in 2026.
Brenda Langerud, a Master Gardener serving Blue Earth and Le Sueur counties, contributes hundreds of pounds of fresh produce each year through her personal garden and the Waterville community garden. Her efforts help increase access to healthy, locally grown foods for families in need.
Fresh produce donations are especially valuable in rural communities where access to grocery stores may be limited. Food shelves often distribute these items quickly because of the demand for nutritious fruits and vegetables.
After retiring and relocating to Minnesota, Langerud continued her commitment to community service and education. She transformed an underused gardening space in Waterville into a thriving community garden by restoring existing beds, adding new ones, and securing funding for supplies.
The community garden has grown into a shared space where residents can cultivate food, learn gardening skills, and connect with neighbors. Community support and volunteer involvement have played an important role in its success.
Langerud also supports local gardening education through community events and outreach programs. These efforts help residents learn more about horticulture, sustainable gardening, and food production.
In addition to growing food, Langerud promotes food preservation as a way to reduce waste and extend access to homegrown produce. As a certified food preservation consultant, she educates community members about safe methods for freezing, drying, and preserving fruits and vegetables.
Food preservation education helps families make the most of their harvests while improving long-term food access. Extension volunteers share this information through workshops, newsletters, and community outreach programs.
The University of Minnesota Extension Master Gardener Program continues to demonstrate how volunteer service, education, and community engagement can strengthen local food systems. Through produce donations, gardening projects, and food preservation efforts, volunteers are helping build healthier and more resilient communities.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-joshua-resnick
Categories: Minnesota, Rural Lifestyle, Sustainable Agriculture