Heather Bateman, a professor at Arizona State University, received a grant of almost $400,000 from the Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture for her project “Growing Gardens, Growing Minds,” focused on urban sustainable agriculture and ecosystem science education. The grant program aims to increase the number of professionals in food, agriculture, and natural resources sciences by offering classes at Hispanic Serving Institutions (HSIs). Approximately 600 HSIs serve about 5 million students.
Bateman’s project involves hands-on experiential learning in biology, agriculture, and social-ecological systems for undergraduate and graduate students. The program also includes research opportunities for underrepresented students working with faculty mentors.
The grant funding will support the establishment of raised garden beds and indoor vertical gardens at ASU’s Polytechnic and West Valley campuses. The project will incorporate principles of holistic and ancient Ayurvedic medicine in teaching, focusing on the full life cycle of plants and sustainable farming practices.
Students involved in the project will grow a variety of crops including the “Three Sisters” – corn, squash, and beans, to educate others about traditional farming practices. The ultimate goal is to increase food production and provide resources to surrounding communities in need.
Overall, the grant program aims to inspire more people to get involved in food production and to promote sustainable and innovative farming practices. Ultimately, the goal is to nurture minds and plant seeds of knowledge to contribute to a more sustainable food future.
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