Growing community in the city
Each year, Hennepin County partners with the University of Minnesota Extension to recognize a Farm Family of the Year, honoring those who exemplify innovation, stewardship and community service in agriculture across both rural and urban settings.
This year, that honor goes to sisters Elyssa and Cory Eull of California Street Farm in Northeast Minneapolis. At their half-acre market garden, they grow a variety of vegetables, herbs and cut flowers in the heart of the city’s vibrant arts district.
Elyssa (left) and Cory Eull (right) from California Street Farm.
At the October 20 board meeting, Lisa Spaniolo, extension educator for Urban Agriculture and Small Farms, introduced this year’s honorees and shared their remarkable story.
"I'm honored to recognize Elyssa and Cory Eull for their efforts and contributions to Minnesota agriculture here in Hennepin County," said Spaniolo. "California Street Farm demonstrates that urban agriculture can be profitable while strengthening local food systems, stewarding natural resources and building community resilience."
Through no-till growing, intercropping, cover crops and hoophouses, Elyssa leads a production system that builds soil health, conserves water and extends the growing season. Cory's communication work showcases the farm's mission and impact. Together, they have created a model for how small scale urban farms can nourish both people and place, strengthening the county’s local food system.
The farm serves hundreds of families through a weekly farm stand, the Minneapolis Farmers Market, and a growing community service agriculture program. In addition, they welcome volunteers, participate in research projects, and engage in community-driven support efforts.
"I want to extend gratitude for the ways in which [California Street Farm] nourish people’s bodies, nourish the community and nourish a growth mindset, both physically and figuratively," said Board Chair Dr. Irene Fernando.
Through their creative approaches to land use and thoughtful stewardship of resources, Elyssa and Cory embody the forward-thinking spirit essential for building a future that protects environmental and community well-being. Their example underscores how locally driven agricultural leadership can inspire new models of sustainable growth, ensuring future generations inherit a healthier, more resilient food system.