Rah Rah Rhubarb

Some may think saving rhubarb is going a little too far, but nothing is too small to save.  If you like pie, jam, and wine, rhubarb might just be right for you.  It grows without chemicals, lasts for years when ignored and is hardy, even in our cold Northeast MN climate.

  Rhubarb Preservation projects is in response to the lack of effort nationwide to maintain the genetic basis of this minor but important crop. Over 2,000 years ago it was found in Western and North-western provinces of China and in the adjoining Tibetan territory, and was origionally cultivated for its medicinal qualities. Since the 18th century, rhubarb was grown for eating. Rhubarb is often commonly mistaken to be a fruit but rhubarb is actually in the vegetable family. Rhubarb is rich in vitamin C and dietary fiber and initial tests have found that it can lower cholesteral. 

More about the preservation project, check out the Rah Rah Rhubarb web page!

David Abazs and his wife have farmed along the North Shore of Lake Superior, near Finland, since 1989. Abazs also teaches at Wolf Ridge Environmental Learning Center, at North House Folk School and at Split Rock Lighthouse. And he runs a renewable energy business.