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   WALKER—Cass County Master Gardener Program Coordinator Matt Moraczewski and Longville Food Shelf Executive Director Andrea Richard presented updates on community gardening efforts and rising food insecurity across the county during the regular meeting on Tuesday, May 5.

   Moraczewski said one of his goals this year is to complete a strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats analysis for the Master Gardener program. He also met with county staff to review landscaping improvements around the courthouse, suggesting low-cost, drought-resistant plants to improve the appearance of the grounds and create a more welcoming environment for residents. He noted special attention should be given to the Veterans Memorial by incorporating native plants that would remain attractive year after year with minimal maintenance.

   Moraczewski also highlighted improvements at the Remer Community Garden, where 12 new raised garden beds were installed inside the high tunnel with support from the University of Minnesota. The university also provided a sink and teaching easel for educational programming. Moraczewski said organizers are eager to begin the growing season once weather conditions improve.

   Richard, speaking on behalf of the seven Cass County food shelves, outlined growing concerns about food insecurity. According to Feeding America data, approximately 15.8% of Cass County residents, roughly 2,500 people or one in seven residents, experience food insecurity, including nearly one in six children.

   Richard explained that food shelves provide more than food, often offering personal care items, emergency assistance, energy assistance information, school supplies and children’s food packs during the summer months. The Longville Area Food Shelf also partners with the Knights of Columbus to distribute winter clothing for children.

Richard said food shelf visits continue to rise sharply. Cass County recorded 12,142 visits in 2023, increasing to 14,440 visits in 2024 and 15,596 visits in 2025. At the Longville Food Shelf alone, monthly usage has more than doubled since before the pandemic, growing from fewer than 100 families per month to approximately 220 families monthly.

   It was also noted rising grocery prices, uncertainty surrounding federal programs and reductions in food assistance are contributing to increased demand. Protein, dairy products and eggs remain the most requested food items by food shelf users.

Richard praised partnerships with organizations such as Second Harvest Northland and local community gardens, noting the Remer Community Garden has supplied thousands of pounds of fresh produce to local food shelves. However, obtaining fresh produce during the off-season remains difficult, especially for smaller communities whose local grocery stores may view food shelves as competition.

   Transportation challenges were also identified as another major issue throughout rural Cass County. Limited transit options, unreliable vehicles and high fuel costs often prevent residents from accessing food shelves. While some agencies help provide transportation, staffing shortages and volunteer availability remain ongoing concerns.

Richard also addressed the stigma surrounding food shelf use, particularly among older adults who may hesitate to seek help because of embarrassment or fear of judgment. She encouraged continued community education and compassion to reduce that stigma.

   Commissioners discussed transportation assistance programs and concerns about occasional abuse of services, though Richard emphasized the overwhelming majority of food shelf users genuinely need assistance.

   Moraczewski added that the Master Gardener program hopes to place a trained master gardener in every community garden throughout Cass County to provide local support and reduce strain on volunteers assisting gardens across the area.

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