Student ecologists have begun a new sustainability project at the Forest Garden called "Greening MST Garden," in partnership with the non-profit Silva. The first session took place on Wednesday, September 25, with many more planned throughout the school year. Silva will collaborate with the Willow class in the Forest Garden, visiting approximately 6 to 7 times over the school year for lectures and fieldwork.
This initiative aims to enrich MST’s garden and regenerate biodiversity, offer hands-on learning about natural ecosystems, and foster community and family spirit. The program will also educate students on the role of forests in disaster prevention, such as flood control and climate change mitigation, by helping nature absorb rainwater and replenish underground water resources.
Students Takuma and Leon report that “Willow went to the MST Garden to dig a trench so the soil can receive oxygen and water. We will go to the MST Garden once a week to dig a trench. We will do a presentation to the lower elementary classes because we need to teach them how to dig a trench too. We like to dig because we like to get dirty!!”
Willow students will attend lectures from Silva and will have daily opportunities to work in the garden during work periods. As the year progresses, they will share their knowledge with Lower Elementary, Sunshine, and Little People students, teaching them how to care for the garden.
In October, MST HEAL (the students’ sustainability group) is invited to join the Reforestation Symposium, a worldwide event organized by the G20 Global Land Initiative Team. The symposium will feature the “Miyawaki Method” of reforestation, which Silva has been implementing in collaboration with Dr. Miyawaki. This method highlights global efforts to shift towards natural, sustainable solutions for a resilient future.
We look forward to watching our garden grow and thrive through this initiative. Thank you for your support in making MST a greener, more sustainable community!
–Maria Hovi