The FGCU Food Forest I have had the opportunity to design and lead the installation and management of a student-run botanical garden called the FGCU Food Forest. This special project of the Student Government offers solutions to issues of environmental sustainability of human systems in South Florida. By providing a resource of information on tropical and subtropical edible fruits, natives, and useful plants that grow well in our climate, the Food Forest provides the opportunity to learn about subtropical fruiting species and how to grow food through the application of agricultural ecology. Since its inception the Food Forest has been powered by student-volunteers. Over 10,000 service hours have been documented in this milestone of student-directed actions towards a healthier campus community. From my experiences at the Food Forest, I have learned leadership skills necessary to manage large groups of volunteers. I have also learned about teamwork and how to communicate with others in order to reach a common goal. I feel inspired knowing that our volunteerism has helped to spread information about edible plants and empowered students to grow organic food on their campus.
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