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About Us

We are on a mission to help the community learn about traditional Haudenosaunee agricultural methods of planting, growing, harvesting, seed keeping, food preparation, food storage, tool making, and crafting. 

Ukwakhwa is a nonprofit organization growing traditional, heirloom foods with an emphasis on Haudenosaunee varieties of corn, beans, and squash. We host a variety of events where the community comes to learn about planting, growing, harvesting, seed keeping, food preparation, food storage, and making traditional tools and crafts. ​

 

With our ongoing goals in mind, an Oneida faithkeeper named our property

Ukwakhwa: Tsinu Niyukwayayʌthoslu (Our foods: Where we plant things).

Our Story

In the spring of 2017, Oneida Nation citizens Steve and Becky Webster purchased 10 acres of land on the Oneida Reservation. The following year, with the help of friends and family, they built a home. Initially, they envisioned a space to research, learn, experiment (or, as Steve would say, "send it!"), and then share their knowledge with the community. Their goals continue to develop as they host events led by their team or other organizations doing similar work.

 

Seven years and multiple construction projects later, Steve and Becky continue to look into the future and assess the needs of the community. Five additional acres were acquired in January 2025 bringing the total acreage to 15.

 

Becky Webster volunteers her time as Executive Director, leading Ukwakhwa with dedication and passion. Steve Webster is compensated for only 25% of his time, generously volunteering the rest to manage the farmstead and lead community events.

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"Our philosophy is that every time an Indigenous person plants a seed, that is an act of resistance, an assertion of sovereignty, and a reclamation of identity."

Meet Our Team

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Rebecca 'Becky' Webster

Executive Director

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Giselle 'Gise' Oliva-Metoxen

Program Development Specialist

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Chiquita 'Bo' Bonita

Junior Dirt Analyst

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Henry

Guardian of the Corn

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Stephen Webster

Farm and Culinary Operations Director

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Michele Doxtator

Occasional Event Specialist (and Mom-in-Residence)

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Blackberry 'Berry'

Rodent Relations Specialist

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Stella Beans Webster (2011 - 2024)

Original Farm Surpervisor 

Our Partners

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