Middle Schoolers Learn about Hydroponics and Food Deserts

Another day, another field trip for the Farm 101 IMPACT class in the Middle School.  The class visited two local organizations to learn about hydroponics systems, food deserts, and food insecurity, and how Levo is trying to support Hartford and all of its residents.  

The tour began at the Hispanic Health Council building, a community building that provides services to Frog Hollow residents.  The presenter was a scientist from the Levo international team (https://levointernational.org/) who discussed hydroponics and plants.  The students were surprised to learn that plants don’t need soil to grow and only require water, light, and nutrients.  Hydroponics use 90% less water than traditional agriculture, and their root systems plants are smaller and more fragile than plants in the ground as they do not need to work hard to find water. The energy saved by the hydroponics is diverted into making fruit. The presenter shared that Levo is a vital partner in the community. The residents in the area visit the Hispanic Health Council building for health care, to learn English, and collect greens, herbs, broccoli, and even tomatoes!

Next, the Middle Schoolers traveled to Hartford Hospital and spoke with a technician from Levo International and the director of the Hartford Hospital Food for Health program (https://hartfordhospital.org/services/food4health).  The large rooftop garden at the hospital provides produce for their market to help patients eat healthier and alleviate some symptoms of their struggles, like diabetes and heart conditions.  The students learned that many residents who live under the poverty line cannot afford fresh produce. Unfortunately, many unhealthy foods are less expensive, so the local population gravitates to foods without nutritional value.  The students noted that although the hydroponics systems were impressive, a handy person could build one in their backyard.

During the travel time, Middle School Spanish teacher Trish Crowley spoke Spanish to the students as they observed the bodegas, storefronts, bright murals, and incredible culture. 

Once the students return to the classroom, they will debrief and plan projects, including building an aquaponic unit for a small fish tank in Katherine Nicholson’s art room to grow plants. A master gardener will visit the class to discuss pollinators so the class can build a pollinator garden for KO.