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Volunteering in the propagation of Black Eyed Susan plants with my classmate Mike was an interesting experience that not only provided  insights into plant propagation but also created a deeper connection to the importance of preserving native plant species. Our collaborative effort involved using a simple yet effective method to propagate Black Eyed Susans. Mike and I started the propagation process by carefully removing Black-Eyed Susan seeds. We then repurposed jugs as makeshift plant containers. We cut the jugs and  placed soil inside to accommodate the seeds. To protect the delicate seeds during the initial stages of growth, we used the jugs as mini greenhouses. After placing the soil and seeds inside, we taped the jugs back together, creating a protective environment that mimicked the conditions needed for successful growth. The greenhouses allowed the seeds to be sheltered enough for things to not affect them, but revealed enough to where the cold can begin the stratification process. This makeshift greenhouse not only shielded the seeds from environmental stresses but also provided an efficient way to stratify the seeds and promote healthy development. Our choice to propagate Black-Eyed Susans, a native plant species, held significance. It corresponds with our coursework discussions on the importance of preserving biodiversity and the role of native plants in maintaining ecological balance (rain garden for example). By actively engaging in the propagation of native species, Mike and I contributed to the conservation of plant diversity in the area. It also prompted discussions about the broader implications of native plant propagation, such as its potential impact on local ecosystems and the benefits for pollinators and wildlife. For example, how native plants help to reduce rainwater runoff and also helps with the reduction of erosion. This is something that is similar to what we have on campus with the rain garden at the IHM center. It is completely drainless and all of the water flows into the rain garden. Basically, this project helped to allow the natural processes of the ecosystem to take place.

This activity raised questions about scalability and community involvement in native plant propagation. How can similar initiatives be expanded to involve more community members in preserving local biodiversity? Are there opportunities for collaboration with local organizations or schools to promote widespread native plant propagation efforts? Exploring these questions helped us to understand the possible applications of plant propagation and its potential to contribute to broader environmental conservation goals.

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Cleaning up my childhood park, Blakely Borough Recreational Park was a great experience that not only contributed to the physical improvement of the community space but also provided valuable insights into environmental stewardship and community engagement. The act of picking up litter for 30 minutes at the local park was more than just a task; it allowed me to gain a greater understanding of what it means to be sustainable. It allowed me to relate to the course topics as I could see first hand how plastics and other garbage were entering the Lackawanna River. THe act of cleaning up the trash gave me responsibility for the garbage and I immediately became upset and this ultimately made it even less likely for me to litter. As I immersed myself in this cleanup, I couldn't help but notice the immediate impact it was making. The river that is basically known for being littered in my area, began to transform into a cleaner, more inviting space. The act of picking up trash was symbolic because it showed that if just one person could make a difference, imagine multiple people. Better yet, imagine never littering in the first place!

From a course perspective, this hands on experience really aligned with the course topics we've looked at and studied. It brought to life the concepts of pollution prevention and the consequences of neglecting waste disposal practices. As I sorted through various types of litter, I found myself thinking about the lifecycle of these items and how proper disposal methods could reduce their negative effects on the environment. Also, if our nation had a more cyclical approach to consumerism, it would be hard to say that there would be this amount of garbage in the river.

Additionally, the activity caused me to reflect on the broader implications of community engagement. It helped to show me the idea that individuals play a crucial role in maintaining the spaces they share. Even small actions, like picking up trash, contribute to a larger understanding of the environmental crises of this era. This aligns with discussions in our course about the importance of sustainable practices and the impact of human activities on ecosystems.

This experience raised questions about the sustainability of community cleanup efforts. How can we encourage continuous participation in voluntary cleanups? Are there policy changes or educational programs that could increase the effectiveness of these efforts? These are some questions that I’m left with after cleaning up Blakely Borough Recreational Complex

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These jugs are filled with dirt and seeds are planted in there. The jugs are used as individual greenhouses during the stratification process

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In my community engagement opportunity, I learned how to propagate native Black Eyed Susan plants.

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This community engagement activity is an example of how individual actions can contribute to a cleaner, safer environment! It highlights the importance of taking care of the community. I had multiple people come up to me and ask what I was doing, some even offered to help!