Local Gardeners Seek to Transform Milwaukee into an Edible Forest

A local group of gardeners hope to mend the disconnected food system in Milwaukee by filling yards and parks with fruit and nut trees — transforming the city into an edible forest.

The Victory Garden Initiative launched its Fruity Nutty Campaign Oct. 3, with a goal of creating a sustainable food system in the city.

"Milwaukee is very disconnected from the food system," Shorewood resident and VGI Executive Director Gretchen Mead said. "When you plant a tree, it grows and produces food for a long time with little maintenance. It’s much more sustainable in the long term."

Throughout the campaign, new fruit and nut trees will serve as a source of healthy, fresh and sustainably-grown food, Mead said. Planting the trees also provide a healthily food source for residents who wouldn’t otherwise have access to the option.

"The food system doesn’t serve everyone equally," Mead said. "As we grow fruit and nut trees in Milwaukee, it will begin to increase our biodiversity."

In addition to serving as a source of nutritious food, fruit and nut trees provide oxygen, absorb carbon, protect against soil erosion and help to keep urban environments cool in the summer.

"There's a whole host of things trees do in an urban environment," she said. "They help prevent storm water runoff.

"They provide beauty. People have a better sense of wellbeing when they around trees."

The group will hold its second annual Fruity Nutty Affair on Nov. 11 at the historic Pabst Brewery Best Place Tavern. Come dressed in cocktail attire and talk with experts about fruit or nut trees for your yard.

The event will also include an assortment of tapas served by local restaurants — including Shorewood's own — a silent and live auctions, a hazelnut tree seedling sale, dancing, and guest appearances made by a few fruity nutty characters. It all starts at 6 p.m.

You can find tickets online at www.victorygardeninitiative.org.