Throughout the recent history at Pilgrim Hot Springs, reaching back over the past 100 years, growing food has been a feature of this beautiful place. In the spring, while other areas nearby are still covered in ice and snow, Pilgrim Hot Springs is early in melting out. Because of the geothermal activity, the ground doesn't freeze at Pilgrim which makes for perfect early planting. Coupled with Alaska's long summer days, plants have ample time to grow and bear fruit.
​
This summer we are pleased to introduce Mathew Herman, our fulltime on site farmer at the Pilgrim Hot Springs garden. Mathew grew up on a farm in Wisconsin and has a lifetime of experience in field tending, growing food, and working on farm equipment. He and his cat, David, are busy growing food, slaying voles, and preparing unused fields for next year's garden.
​
Accompanying Mathew in working on the Pilgrim garden, long-time Nome local and Master Gardener, Cheryl Thompson, has been lending her expertise. Cheryl has vast experience with what types of plants do best with our local climate and not only lends her knowledge to this project but to all of Nome's gardeners.
​
We are lucky to be a recipient of a Kawerak College Intern, Joshua Cannon, as well as an AmeriCorps VISTA volunteer. Sara Warren. Both Josh and Sara have been working together virtually to plan for and assist with the Pilgrim Hot Springs garden as well as plan for and work other projects.
​
​
For more information about the Pilgrim Hot Springs garden, or to volunteer, please contact pilgrim@kawerak.org.
