Located behind Elizabeth Hall at Rollins College, Rollins Urban Farm is a vibrant educational hub for sustainability enthusiasts and budding botanists. In a recent interview with Cecily Horwitz, an environmental studies major and sustainability coordinator who manages an urban farm, we delved into the nitty-gritty of this eco-friendly project, its importance and how it’s incorporated into the curriculum. I understood a novel method.
One of the notable elements of Urban Farm is its connection to academics at Rollins. This semester, the Sustainability Program is partnering with two classes. Associate Professor of Biology Dr. Paul Stephenson conducts experiments using the farm and hydroponic tower as a laboratory for his plant physiology class. Dr. Stevenson’s Plant Physiology class actively participates on the farm, with a primary focus on the greenhouse. This initiative provides an engaging and constructive collaboration between education and practical application. Dr. Stevenson’s class uses hydroponic towers, a unique system for growing plants without soil. The greenhouse serves as the birthplace of many of the farm’s plants.
Students in Dr. Stevenson’s classes apply the principles they learn in lectures in real-world settings. They work with nutrient solutions in their hydroponic towers, creating and experimenting with the right mixture to ensure their plants grow. Additionally, this class will tackle challenges such as aphid infestations using experimental approaches to find environmentally friendly solutions.
Melissa Nelson, director of the Social Impact Hub, teaches Introduction to Liberal Arts, a required general education course for students in the Professional Advancement program that includes community engagement, including volunteering on the farm. With the support and expertise of Bush Science Center Greenhouse Manager Zari St. Jean, Nelson’s students began her semester by planting adobo peppers, tomatoes, marigolds, and a wide variety of herbs. started.
In addition to a small orchard planted to honor former Chancellor Susan Singer’s sustainability efforts, Horowitz and her team planted flower beds in time for Valentine’s Day. The goal, Horwitz emphasized, is to fill all raised beds and welcome volunteers with open arms before the Thanksgiving holiday.
Rollins Urban Farm is a unique garden that offers the Rollins community the opportunity to explore the wonders of growing food through hands-on learning. Produce grown on urban farms is never wasted. It was delivered to the Student Assistance Foundation, which operates a free food pantry for students. This initiative plays an important role in addressing food insecurity on campus, providing fresh, locally grown produce to those in need.
Interestingly, Urban Farm’s influence extends beyond the university community. Mr. Horowitz sought ways to integrate the Hume House children, who were active participants in this eco-friendly venture, learning and experimenting with different types of plants. This content is a testament to the farm’s mission to be an educational resource for all.
Rollins Urban Farm is an example of our commitment to sustainability. It provides a unique platform for hands-on learning and exploration while contributing to the University’s mission of being socially and environmentally responsible. With the support of dedicated individuals, dedicated volunteers, and community partners, Urban Farm continues to grow. If you are interested in getting involved or volunteering, please feel free to contact us at chorwitz@rollins.edu and join us in this movement.
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