This networking and educational event is for residents in the region to exchange and learn about seeds. Participants can trade or acquire seeds, learn about seed saving techniques and gardening practices, browse resource tables and vendors, and connect with other gardeners.

The free event is open to the public and will take place from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Saturday, Jan. 20, at Goshen College Church Chapel 1900 S. Main St., Goshen.

Everyone is welcome, from first-time gardeners to experienced growers, including children and families. Two food vendors, including Tacos El Portal Food Truck, will be available from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m., and various baked goods will be available from 9:30 a.m. until sold out.

“A seed swap supports the biodiversity of crops grown in our region. Exchanging seeds helps us to create a ‘living seed bank’ of vegetables, grains, flowers and herbs that are regionally adapted to our area,” said John Sherck, a local seed grower and swap contributor.

Throughout the event, there will be educational sessions for participants to attend. Topics such as “The Science of Our Mother Corn: A Case Study of the Adaptation of Northern Mexican Corn in Michigan,” “Propagating Native Seeds the Easy Way” and “Myaamia Connection to the Land” will be discussed. Among the speakers will be Cyndy García-Weyandt, John Brittenham, and Doug Peconge and Dani Tippman.

More information about the educational sessions, vendors, sponsors, event details, and frequently asked questions can be found on the website at goshen.edu/merrylea/seedswap.

Herb, vegetable and flower seeds will be available through sales, trades and for free thanks to donations. Participants are not required to bring seeds to the event but are encouraged to do so if they have them. Everyone is welcome to come for the duration of the event or just drop in.

Merry Lea is located just south of Wolf Lake, halfway between Goshen and Fort Wayne. Directions and updates are available at goshen.edu/merrylea or the Merry Lea Facebook page. For questions regarding Merry Lea’s hours, contact by sending an email to [email protected] or calling (260) 799-5869.