Biography: Justin Ciletti

My name is Justin Ciletti, and I am one of two student managers of the UMD Land Lab! I study Environmental Science, and I hope to go to graduate school for soil science to continue my agricultural education. While still in high school, I started working for the Hmong American Farmers Association (HAFA), where I learned about the challenges that small farmers face, including land tenure and access to different markets. After three seasons with HAFA, including one season during the pandemic, I knew I wanted to continue learning about farming. Over the years, I’ve become more focused on soil health and best management practices. The Land Lab has provided a great opportunity to learn about the soil and also about how to farm. This year especially has been a learning experience, with my co-manager and fellow student Abby Magruder and I taking on the responsibility of running the farm. We’ve enjoyed learning about The Book of the North and about growing flax from Dr. Twu, and we’re grateful to be a part of this project! As a result of our involvement, I have a greater appreciation of the work it takes to make something as unassuming as a book from scratch.