About Sam
Sam joined the Elawa team in November 2024 as the Farm Manager. Sam oversees 1.5 acres of vegetable and cut flower production as well as local food purchasing for the café, market, and CSA at Elawa. Sam brings over 8 years of organic vegetable farming experience. Previously, Sam instructed a 9 month sustainable urban agriculture apprenticeship program in partnership with Chicago Botanic Garden’s Windy City Harvest department and Chicago City Colleges.
Sam was first introduced to farming on a small family-owned farm in Traverse City Michigan and fell in love with working with nature to feed his community. He studied soil science at the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and worked with farmers to implement regenerative practices that prioritize the health of the soil and our communities. In his free time, Sam enjoys making music, cooking with the bounty from the farm, and running his own urban farm to increase food access in the south side of Chicago
Favorite produce from the garden: Leeks
Favorite flower found at Elawa Farm: Elderflower