COVID-19 Response Outback

COVID-19 Outback Farm Response

COVID-19 has affected all of us - and of course WWU is no exception. Events were cancelled and classes were moved online for most of 2020 and 2021...but a majority of faculty, staff, and administration have now returned to campus! The pandemic has brought into high relief the need to have a strong community and resilient, local food systems. Safety protocols have been created and by all following COVID compliance, wearing masks, and physically distancing we can keep each other safe.

Volunteering

Outback events have now returned to campus and are open to all. Come join a work party – no preparation required! LEAD, an environmental service group on campus, also has work parties on the farm Mondays from 3-5pm.

Food Justice and Access

Food justice is a priority for the Outback, and our mission is for students to grow food for students. This has become even more critical in the face of a pandemic, exacerbating food insecurity and hunger in our community. The Farm is maximizing production of fresh, healthy, organic produce this year - and finding creative ways of distributing our fruits, veggies, honey, eggs and donated bread and nonperishables. Access food at:

  • The WHOLE pantry on the 5th floor of the VU
  • WHOLE pantry in Birnam Woods
  • Food pantry in Fairhaven College, 3rd floor entrance (under construction)
  • For more information about the Bellingham Food Bank, visit https://www.bellinghamfoodbank.org/

 

Periodically, we offer free farmer’s markets and welcome you to come "shop” for fresh, whole foods to take home.

Tables loaded with fresh kale, spinach and big green squash next to small shelves with stacked canned vegitables and fruits

Community Gardeners

Our Community Gardens are open! But please help keep each other safe and comfortable:

  • Never come to the farm if you are sick or have been exposed to COVID-19.
  • Plot holders should perform a self-screening for COVID-19 symptoms before coming to the Outback. If you exhibit any of the symptoms, do not come to the farm, contact your healthcare provider, and get better soon.
  • Observe at least 6' of physical distancing.
  • Please bring your own tools at this time.
  • Wear masks and gloves and sterilize at home after each use.
  • Following the guidelines of the City of Bellingham, we won’t have any gatherings or events for community gardeners this season.

To see the official statement from the University granting permission and outlining rules and restrictions, please visit Community Garden Procedures Outback. In addition, feel free to ask questions by contacting the farm manager Terri Kempton at kemptot@wwu.edu.

 

Thank You