Built as a school and convent/abbey in the 60s, St. Bede’s Monastery on Eau Claire’s south side includes three buildings and 54 living spaces on 112 acres. With the property now up for sale, locals Aaron Brewster and Jeremy Gragert are hoping to make it a sustainable community unto itself, possibly to be named Leopold Commons (after conservation guru Aldo Leopold). With tons of on-site accommodations for it, the commune will focus on education – both in the classroom and in practice – on topics like farming, land use, stewardship, and others under the umbrellas of science and economics. Brewster also says they’re considering options like producing, processing, and selling veggies, baked goods, soils and fertilizers, and art, plus offering bike repair, lodging, workshops, storage, and office space. The start-up costs for this kind of project are significant, but the idea is that, over time, operational costs will nearly diminish. Right now estimates point to more than $3 million, and the main criticisms of the plan concern that number. Last fall they invited city council members to tour the grounds, and they had the same reaction as the Benedictine Sisters currently living there. “They were largely positive and supportive, but there’s some skepticism on the funding and sustainability of it, which is totally understandable,” Brewster said. “Grasping the concept is tough because there’s nothing around here like it.” The duo recognizes how far-fetched it is, which is why they’re currently trying to secure community and organizational partnerships instead of massive loans. Brewster said UW-Eau Claire may be interested in holding classes there, and further interest is stemming from a local hospital and farmers.

ACTION ITEM: Contact Brewstaj@uwec.edu or JGragert@gmail.com

RUMBLINGS takes the pulse of public ideas by sharing concepts that local officials, businesses, or citizens are currently discussing. These ideas could grow and change our community, or just add to public conversation. If you have in interest in something featured, drop them a line. And if you’ve heard some rumblings, let us know at: mail@volumeone.org or call (715) 552-0457.