Farm to Forest: Planting the Seeds of Progress

Through the LYNK program, the panelists each completed summer internship experiences related to agriculture and forestry. Kristina Link '27 collaborated with the Amherst Public Shade Tree Committee in drafting a significant tree ordinance, which will protect and preserve large trees in the urban canopy. Shea Cardella '27 and Charlie Price '27 both worked at Flowerwork Farm in Northampton. Shea's work focused largely on public outreach and floral design, emphasizing the importance of local farming and environmental art on community well-being. Charlie focused on designing and conducting a soil experiment, examining how different types of ground cover affect soil moisture, temperature, and pH. Anja Eriksen '26 traveled to four different farms in Finland to study Finnish land use practices in relation to senses of happiness and belonging at the individual level. While cultivating the land through planting and harvesting, the students built upon their community engagement, environmental fieldwork, and research skills.

Presenters:

Shea Cardella '27, Environmental StudiesKristina Link '27, Environmental Studies and ;GeographyAnja Eriksen '26, GeographyCharlie Price '27, Biology