On April 20th and 25th, Daily acts partnered with Petaluma Bounty to host two field trips for the 4th graders of Penngrove Elementary. Over 60 students joined us to learn about the basics of composting and how healthy soils store carbon dioxide.
Gathering at Petaluma Bounty Farm within the Master Gardener’s Unity Garden, students began the day with their Garden Class Teacher Ms. Ortiz. Standing in a circle, the 4th graders shared why they enjoy gardening and their favorite vegetables. The students then had the opportunity to tour the grounds, experience the greenhouse’s humidity, and pet chickens in the orchard.
After a break for snack, the students gathered for a presentation by Jennifer Roberts, a Master Gardener and environmental educator. Jennifer spoke enthusiastically about how to compost and why it helps plants grow. Furthermore, she discussed concepts like climate change and carbon sequestration, receiving nods of understanding from the climate literate 4th graders.
Finally, students conducted a scientific experiment, preparing pots with three different soil-compost mixtures. After planting seeds in each pot, students hypothesized which mixture would produce the healthiest plant. Taking from Jennifer’s presentation, most students figured that the mixture with the most compost would be the most productive. After watering them in, the students brought these experimental plants back to the classroom to watch them grow!
Ending the day, Ms. Ortiz left us with a call and response song in which the students sent their gratitude to the sun and soil for the food we eat. The students left with new knowledge and excitement about what happens to their organic scraps when they make it to the green bin!
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This event was made possible through a county-funded grant project focused on increasing carbon sequestration through compost application and education. This work is to assist with the goals of SB1383 and improve soil health. Through this grant, during 2023, Daily Acts will host a series of educational events on compost throughout the county; one for each of the 5 Sonoma County districts.
