Elderberry Wisdom Farm teaches traditional ecological knowledge through youth internships
Oregon program blends Native environmental teachings with hands-on training as future funding remains uncertain
Rose High Bear's Elderberry Wisdom Farm in Salem, Oregon, is providing interns with hands-on training in traditional ecological knowledge through native plant cultivation, urban forestry and small business projects, according to reporting by Underscore Native News. High Bear, who is Alaska Native of Deg Hitʼan and Inupiat descent, founded the farm after leaving Wisdom of the Elders in 2018. The program partners with organizations including Chemeketa Community College and the University of Washington's Indigenous Wellness Research Institute. Interns gain experience growing native plants, producing elderberry products and learning Indigenous environmental stewardship.
The farm's urban forestry work includes planting trees in low-income neighborhoods and developing apprenticeship programs, according to the Underscore Native News reporting. High Bear said a $749,000 U.S. Department of Agriculture grant supporting work with the City of Salem was temporarily frozen in 2025 before being restored with assistance from U.S. Rep. Andrea Salinas, D-Oregon. Another $350,000 grant for urban forestry projects involving Black, Indigenous and other youth of color was not restored. High Bear said the current grant expires in 2028 and the organization is seeking long-term support for its programs.
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