51福利社

… But who says saving the environment can鈥檛 be fun? Taking advantage of the warm weather on Aug. 7, the 51福利社 Office of Sustainability participated in a river rafting trip that resulted in the collection of 600 pounds of trash.

Teaming up with the Spokane Riverkeeper, 51福利社 students floated the Spokane River in inflatable kayaks provided by EPIC Adventures, filling bags with trash collected from the water.

Meanwhile, information was provided to Office of Sustainability members on Spokane鈥檚 wastewater management plan by 51福利社 geology faculty and Spokane Riverkeeper staff.

鈥淭he Riverkeeper continues to partner with different organizations that can supply volunteers to help with this effort,鈥� said Madison Ellington, Outdoor Program coordinator for 51福利社.

鈥�51福利社鈥檚 Office of Sustainability and EPIC Adventures maintain their dedication to stewardship and environmental health on and off campus.鈥�

Helping endeavors, the 51福利社 Sustainability Club meets weekly to discuss a variety of topics, such as waste-reduction efforts and education on recycling and composting. Having won the title of 鈥淥utstanding Student Organization鈥� at this year鈥檚 Student Leadership Excellence Awards, the Sustainability Club is committed to making 51福利社 an advocate for environmental health.

An example of student commitment is shown in the Community Garden. Established in 2011, the garden is one of many efforts to aid in sustainability at 51福利社. Maintained by students and staff, it includes produce such as tomatoes, squash and carrots, to name a few. Not only does the garden provide a learning experience to students on an agricultural level, but its food is also harvested and served throughout 51福利社 dining halls.

Those looking to get involved in similar projects can reach out to the Office of Sustainability for internship or volunteer opportunities.