Winter 2008 - Eco-Logical Landscaping Class
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Liz McAllister '09, Environmental Studies
The John R. Rodman Arboretum Reclamation Project is a gesture toward reclaiming native landscapes of southern California. By engaging the Pitzer community in designing and planting, we are fulfilling a special responsibility, and we participate in a partnership ethic with the land. Ecological gardening is a form of restoration that helps transform the way we think and act. It reminds us where we are, thus reminding us of who we are.
Paul Faulstich '79
Professor, Environmental Studies
The main goal of this course has been to design and put into practice a native garden to replace the Scott Hall lawn and the area in front of Broad Center, known as the John R. Rodman Arboretum Reclamation Project. Students have learned about “alternative” landscaping and the benefits of native gardens, particularly in the Los Angeles area. The class created plans and blueprints for the area by meeting with regional professionals, engaging in field excursions, and getting acquainted with the ecology of the area.
Ben Rubin '10, Urban Planning
Student groups within the class focused on different aspects of the landscaping project. The focus areas were determined in consultation with the professor, Paul Faulstich, but also included aspects such as community, art, irrigation, biology, and animal usage.
Each group was tasked with researching their focus topic through diverse methodologies, which included consulting experts, reviewing the literature, and surveying and documenting successful examples of their topic. The purpose of the groups was to provide continuous input on their focus topic to the larger class project, becoming experts on that aspect of the process.
The garden is being created with the emphasis on native plants and materials, water conservation, maintenance reduction, and community involvement and empowerment.
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