Sustainability and Community at Stevenson

by Blake Redding, Coordinator for Residential Education, Stevenson College

For the past four years, Stevenson College community members have worked as team to promote sustainable living, community, beauty, and good food -- by composting! This partnership evolved with the help of the Student Environmental Center who brought together numerous stakeholders in 2013 to discuss mutual goals.

We've ended up with an in-house composting program that takes in food scraps from the Stevenson Coffee House and from residential apartments and residence halls from Stevenson, Cowell, Crown and Merrill, brought to us by the East Waste Reduction crew at Campus Facilities. The food scraps then get mixed with straw, leaves, garden waste, manure, and water and formed into perfect compost piles by the Stevenson Garden crew. Millions of micro-organisms then break down the waste, with the help of the Stevenson Garden crew who turn the piles to provide air for those little creatures.

After a few weeks, the waste is unrecognizable, mellow, and ready to be sifted into a beautiful garden mulch/fertilizer that we refer to as "Black Gold". We take the finished compost and work it into the garden soil with every new planting, helping to regenerate the soil and closing the loop on this sustainable system. Community members also participate by providing their food scraps, by attending garden workdays to turn the compost and work the soil, and by harvesting food and flowers that come from the rich soil. It all starts with the soil.

Come out to the Stevenson Garden on Friday afternoons for the community work-day, or check our bulletin board and Facebook page for additional volunteer opportunities and events.

December 2014: Internships, Employment, & Volunteering

INTERNSHIPS

IDEASS Seeking Winter Interns

Impact Designs: Engineering and Sustainability through Student Service (IDEASS) will have a few select spots available for Winter 2015 enrollment. IDEASS is looking for Environmental Studies and other social science majors to bring their unique expertise to projects taking place on campus and the Santa Cruz community. Enrollment in IDEASS helps to fulfill senior exit requirements for almost every major (all Environmental Studies majors hoping to do so should contact Adam Millar-Ball at adammb [at] ucsc [dot] edu THIS quarter to be accepted for Winter). Anyone who is interested in applying or is looking for more information should visit the website.

Food Systems Internships Available

The Food Systems Working Group has an exciting new cadre of student leaders working across their partnerships with Dining, the Farm, and Garden efforts. Are you looking for an internship to join them? Email ucscfswg [at] gmail [dot] com if you'd like to find out more!

FoCAN Intercambio Intercultural Interns Needed

Friends of Community Agroecology Network (FoCAN) is looking for additional interns for winter quarter to work with their Intercambio (Exchange) program. This is an internship opportunity for anyone interested in furthering their understanding of social movements, food systems and globalization. Internships skills you would gain consist of event planning, collaborating with sponsors, and working with a team. For additional information contact FoCAN [at] ucsc [dot] edu. Learn more about Intercambio in this blog post by Adriana Murguia.

EcoShift Consulting and SupplyShift Seeking Interns

Interested in working on fast-paced, applied energy and climate projects in a team environment, and be mentored by experienced environmental professionals? SupplyShift and EcoShift Consulting are seeking 2-3 motivated interns with strong analytical skills to work with its management staff on three projects next year during winter and spring quarters, possibly longer. Please see our blog post for a more thorough description of the internship. Visit SupplyShift's site and EcoShift's site for more information and application. 

Student Environmental Center Internships for Winter
The SEC offers 2- and 5-unit internships each quarter. This winter, they have many opportunities to get involved in their seven sustainability campaigns and supportive positions through Co-Chair. If you are interested in a campaign (review them here), please contact seclead-group [at] ucsc [dot] edu stating which campaign you're interested in and why. They can set up an interview with you--contact them ASAP because internships forms are due before the end of fall quarter. Learn more here.

Santa Cruz Sierra Club Seeking Interns & Volunteers

The mission of the Sierra Club is to explore, enjoy, and protect natural places. It is one of the oldest and largest environmental organization in the country, founded by John Muir in the late 1800s. They are seeking interns and volunteers to support outreach efforts, plan events, and conduct research. If you are interested in learning how environmental activism works at the local level, planning fun events and hikes to engage people with our local environment, and more please email melissa.ott [at] sierraclub [dot] org. Visit the website, Facebook, and MeetUp page for more information.

Coastal Watershed Council Internships Available
The Coastal Watershed Council (CWC) has many great internship opportunities to learn about local watersheds, build your resume, and contribute to cleaner, healthier watersheds in Santa Cruz. They're looking for motivated college and high school students. To apply, email your resume, a 1-2 page writing sample, and why you are interested in a CWC internship to Laurie Egan at legan [at] coastal-watershed [dot] org. For more information, call (831) 464-9200 and view a full list of internship opportunities here.

No Barriers Summit Internship: Deadline December 10

Are you detail-oriented, driven, industrious, and ready to learn? Then join No Barriers in Fort Collins from January to July 2015 to learn about nonprofit management, impact important life experiences, gain valuable skills and experience, and have fun! This intern will assist in conference planning, logistics, attendee management, marketing, registration, and work with sponsors. Application are due December 10, but they will be reviewed on a rolling basis. Learn more and apply here.

The Offset Project is Seeking Sustainability Program Intern

The Offset Project, located in Monterey, California, works to implement sound waste policies and environmental stewardship, is seeking a Sustainability Program Intern to work with the Executive Director to support the Monterey Bay Climate Action Compact by conducting stakeholder outreach, case study development, climate research, grant assistance and more. The intern would start immediately and must commit to a minimum of 6 months and 5-10 hours per work for credit (unpaid). If you are interested, please e-mail a resume and cover letter to Kristin: kristin [at] the offsetproject [dot] org

CSSC Field Organizer Program Internships Available
The California Student Sustainability Coalition (CSSC) Field Organizer Program is a series of paid, unpaid volunteer, and unpaid course credit positions that allow students and recent alumni to get real, on-the-ground organizing experience in the climate justice movement. Field Organizers work on an array of projects to support youth involvement and leadership in CSSC’s Students Against Fracking, Fossil Free Divestment and Reinvestment campaigns. For more information and to apply, visit the website.

myActions on Campus is Seeking Smart, Savvy Student Leaders

myActions on Campus has recognized UC Santa Cruz's commitment to develop next generation leaders and is inviting our students to for two paid internships! Last year 75 campuses across the nation participated, driving over 100,000 sustainable projects and actions in a plethora of communities. These internship roles include Sustainability Campus Intern and Community Service Campus Intern. Don't wait, create change now. For more information visit myActions on Campus page.

Grassroots Internship in Washington, D.C.
When? Spring 2015. Where? Washington, D.C. Who? The National Sustainable Agriculture Coalition (NSAC). Why? To advocate for federal policy that supports sustainable agriculture and food systems through the development of creative, impactful outreach, assisting NSAC members with grassroots outreach campaigns using social media, email and other advocacy tools, conducting research, data analysis, drafting/editing blog posts, etc. This is a paid, full-time internship. Please send resume, cover letter, and the names and contact information for two references to intern [at] sustainableagriculture [dot] net with "Spring Grassroots Intern" in the subject line. For more information: click here.

Summer Naturalist Internship in Aspen, Colorado
Love nature and leadership? Apply for an internship in Aspen, Colorado to lead nature walks, assist with management of the Hallam Lake visitor center, learn about Rocky Mountain ecology, educate the public. Applicants must have an educational background in the natural sciences, environmental education, or related field as well as first-aid and CPR certification. Employment is from June 8-September 7, 2015. For more information and to apply, click here.

EMPLOYMENT

Water Positions Available in the Sustainability Office: Deadline December 4
The Water Action and Drought Response (WADR) Team is dedicated to water conservation and aids UCSC in meeting water rationing goals during this time of drought. They work directly with water fixtures to assess and report for changes, and with student and University staff to promote wise water practices and educate about the seriousness of the drought. The WADR Team is looking for two new students to join a four-person team starting winter quarter. The deadline to apply is December 4, and interviews will happen the following week. View the requirements and application on the Employee Request system here (ER 7324).

Seeking Green Office Certification Program Coordinator
The Sustainability Office is looking for an exceptional leader to oversee the Green Office Certification Program. Lead a team of students to work with staff across campus to improve their business practices and to adopt sustainable behaviors. Full job description and application are available on the UCSC Employment Request system here (ER 6682).

Center for Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems Seeking Two New Hires

The Field Production Site Manager will assume primary responsibility for day-to-day operations of CASFS, as well as support wholesale, farm cart, and dining hall productions; tillage and cultivation systems; irrigation and infrastructure; and ecological stewardship of the overall 30-acre farm site. For more information, click here. The Assistant Director position will be chief administration officer for the Center and will be responsible for managing the human resources, budget, and coordinating operations with minimal direction. They will also serve as a liasion with the Social Sciences Division on human resources, facilities, and IT. For more information, click here. For more information, email casfs [at] ucsc [dot] edu. 

Campus Food & Garden Guide Editor Recruitment

The Center for Agroecology & Sustainable Food Systems creates a Campus Food & Garden Guide every year with information about how to get connected and in touch with your food system in Santa Cruz. Gardens, farmer's markets, internships, courses--it's all here! They are now looking for a 2014-2015 Food Guide Editor. Please send an email to ucscfswg [at] gmail [dot] com if you are interested in this opportunity. Download this year's guide here.

Alliance to Save Energy Seeks Associate
The Alliance to Save Energy is seeking a full-time Associate to assist with implementation of its PowerSave Campus Program and work at their Oakland, CA office. The nonprofit Alliance to Save Energy promotes energy efficiency worldwide to achieve a healthier economy, a cleaner environment, and greater energy security. The PowerSave Campus Program is a student-driven energy efficiency and workforce education and training initiative currently serving 16 campuses in California, including UCSC. For information about the program, position, required qualifications, and to apply, visit their website.

SACNAS Communications & Marketing Coordinator 

Society for Advancement of Hispanics/Chicanos and Native Americans in Science (SACNAS) is looking for a Communications & Marketing coordinator  to increase recognition, membership, engagement and fundraising efforts. This position requires a Bachelor's degree in marketing, communications, journalism or equivalent. Must have a minimum of 1-2 years' experience in communications or marketing role.  The position remains open until filled. For more information about the position, click here. For general information about SACNAS, click here. 

CCOF Seeking Programs Assistant, Office & Sales Assistant, and Development Manager

California Certified Organic Farmers (CCOF) is an organic certifier, trade association and educational foundation supporting the growth of organic food and agriculture. They are currently hiring three positions. For more information and to apply, visit the website. 

Solar Leadership Program Applications Open Soon
SunEdison launched the Solar Leadership Program (SLP) to develop management talent for the company and prepare associates for future leadership roles at SunEdison. The SLP seeks graduate students in programs with an emphasis on broad commercial skills sets such as MBA and similar advanced degree programs with backgrounds in key functions such as engineering, operations, and finance. Full-time Associates complete four 6-month rotations in different business units, followed by placement into a management role in a functional area based on the Associate’s interests and SunEdison’s needs. Recruitments for the class of 2015 will begin shortly. Full-time SLP Associates will be based in Belmont, California, with an expected start date in Summer 2015. For more information please email SLPrecruiting [at] sunedison [dot] com. Learn more here.

Safe Routes to School Seeking a New Executive Director

The Safe Routes to School National Partnership is seeking a new Executive Director to provide leadership, vision and direction to fulfill the mission of the National Partnership! See the position description for full details on the role, responsibilities and what an ideal candidate for this position might look like. Prospective candidates can also contact Janet Albert in confidence at janet.albert [at] bridgepartnersllc [dot] com.

Education Manager for Sierra Nevada Journeys
Sierra Nevada Journeys is seeking a dynamic education professional to expand the program base for SNJs in Sacramento, CA. The Education Manager will be responsible for education, school and field programs, facilitating Family Science Night, sales, marketing, administration, selling SNJ programs, and supporting marketing efforts. For more information: click here.

Project Bike Trip Seeking New Project Bike Director & Bike Tech Program Director

Project Bike Trip is a non-profit organization that offers technical training in bicycle mechanics, preparing youth for job opportunities within the bicycle industry. This is an excellent opportunity to practice sustainability by engaging in a program that offers fun environmentally friendly means of alternative transportation. In order to manage the growing demand for the Bike Tech Program, they are looking for two professional, self-motivated, organize, innovative individuals to join their team. For complete job descriptions and information on how to apply, click here.

VOLUNTEERING

How Do You Drop Your Own Drip?
The Drop Your Own Drip campaign of the Student Environmental Center is conducting a survey about water conservation efforts at UCSC. The campaign will use this data to determine possible project ideas for the future, as well as share the results to the Water Working Group and the Water Task Force. Please take the survey here.

Get Involved with UC Global Food Initiative 

The UC Global Food Initiative aims to address global issues in the food system. All 10 UCs are working collectively towards this effort to support sustainable agriculture, healthy eating, and food security. UCSC is playing a critical role in this effort with the support of the Center for Agroecology and Sustainable Food Systems. Join a subcommittee and get involved by contacting ucscfswg [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

Gaia Magazine Needs Your Help
Gaia Magazine is a student-run environmental magazine on campus which publishes student work both online (year-round) and printed in the annual magazine. Gaia publishes articles, photographs, poems, recipes and other works that are based on the environment and sustainability. Work is accepted on a rolling basis...so submit today! For more information on how to submit publications, email gaiamagazineucsc [at] gmail [dot] com.

Sprout Up Recruiting New Instructors: December 5, 9

Sprout Up is recruiting new instructors for next quarter! Drop-in interested instructor presentations will be held on Friday, December 5 and Tuesday, December 9 at the Stevenson Coffee House from 3:30 - 5 p.m. You only need to attend one presentation. Sprout Up provides free, youth-led environmental education programs to 1st and 2nd grade classrooms in Santa Cruz. College student-instructors teach children vital concepts in environmental science and sustainability during the earliest stages of their educational development, cultivating the next generation of passionate caretakers of the earth. For more information, please contact them at directorsc [at] sprout up [dot] org, and feel free to visit their website at www.SproutUp.org.

Join the CSSC Operating Team
The California Student Sustainability Coalition (CSSC) Operating Team is holding elections to fill several positions for the Spring 2015 term. Positions are held from the Winter Leadership Retreat (January 16th) until the Summer Leadership Retreat (TBD for the end of July). Learn more about the various positions here. To apply, visit this online application.

Become a Student Blogger for CSSC
Interested in sharing your campus' work with a broad statewide coalition? CSSC is currently seeking new student bloggers! Email info [at] sustainabilitycoalition [dot] org for more details. Learn more about CSSC on the blog here.

Community Engagement with San Lorenzo River Alliance
Help the San Lorenzo River Alliance have more positive attention on and more positive engagement with the San Lorenzo River by signing up to be a community engagement volunteer. You'll learn from Coastal Watershed Council staff what they're working on to improve this key watershed, and share that with friends, neighbors and the Santa Cruz community through events and other methods. To learn more or volunteer, email Laurie Egan at legan [at] coastal-watershed [dot] org. Learn more here.

Teach K-12 Watershed Conservation Lessons
Council Watershed Council presents lessons to K-12 grade students at public schools throughout the county. Volunteer to present lessons on the link between watersheds and our water supply, recycling and composting, water pollution prevention, how to pack a trash free lunch, wise energy use, and many other topics related to climate change and wise resource use. To learn more and sign up, email Stew Jenkins at sjenkins [at] coastal-watershed [dot] org or call him at (831) 464-9200. Learn more here.

Carneros Creek Winter Monitoring
Want to gain field experience in beautiful wetland areas? Volunteer with the Carneros Creek Water Quality Monitoring Program to help monitor seasonal Carneros Creek, a primary freshwater tributary to Elkhorn Slough. You'll be professionally trained to test for field measurements and flow, including how to collect water samples that will be analyzed at a certified lab for bacteria, nutrients, total suspended solids, and pesticides. Contact Debie Chirco-Macdonald at djchirco [at] coastal-watershed [dot] org or (831) 464-9200 to get involved. Learn more here.

Volunteers Sought for March for Climate Leadership: February 7
On February 7, thousands of Californians are gathering in Governor Jerry Brown’s longtime home of Oakland to say that we need real climate leadership in the face of the drought. Across the state wells are drying up, more than a dozen cities are in real danger of running out of water, and there’s no question it’s being made worse by climate change. Volunteers are needed to make the march happen, so volunteer online here. Find out more about the March and how you can participate here.

Arboretum Volunteer Gardening Opportunities

The Arboretum has volunteer gardening hours throughout the week. Visit their website for details. 

Volunteer with Sea Slugs, an Ocean Conservation Org

Sea Slugs is an ocean-minded campus organization dedicated to environmental stewardship. It is an excellent opportunity for students (both undergrad and grad) to engage in the greater community through public service while making a positive impact on the local environment. For information about meeting times and opportunities, contact Sea Slugs at seaslug.ucsc [at] gmail [dot] com or visit their website.

Volunteer at a Campus Garden

Want to get your hands dirty and nurture the plants in our campus gardens? Visit the calendar to find out when garden work days are happening here.

Get Involved with Integrated Climate & Energy Study

Interested in climate and energy sustainability? Want to get hands-on experience exploring these topics in relation to our campus? Chrissy Thomure, Climate Action Manager in the Sustainability Office, is coordinating an Integrated Climate & Energy Study with key stakeholders and a consultant. The study launches this year, and students are encouraged to participate! Email Chrissy at cthomure [at] ucsc [dot] edu to find out more.

Find or Upload Projects to Sustainability Project Clearinghouse

Interested in getting involved in a campus sustainability project, but don't know how? Are you looking for partners for your current project? Have you completed a project that you would like others to learn from? Visit the Sustainability Project Clearinghouse, a centralized database of UCSC sustainability projects, today! You can view published projects or upload your own projects and ideas. For training on how to upload a project, please contact Shauna Casey at scasey [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

February 2014 Sustainability Profile: Darlene Khalafi

Each month, our newsletter features a person or group on campus that is working toward a more sustainable world. This month features Darlene Khalafi, the newest member of the Sustainability Office Staff and a UCSC alumna who was involved in sustainability work as an undergraduate.

Name & Job Title: Darlene Khalafi - Sustainability Office Manager/Events Coordinator

Academic Background: Graduated from UCSC with a major in Environmental Studies combined with Biology, class of 2011

Previous Student Organizations: Stevenson Reslife (Residential Advisor); Path to a Greener Stevenson & Stevenson Garden; Student Environmental Center intern for Gardener's Alliance Gatherings (GAG); Climate Organization, Outreach, & Leadership (COOL); Site Stewardship Intern; and Seymour Center Volunteer

Photo by Adam Ghahate

We asked Darlene what she thinks about sustainability and how it relates to her work at UCSC.

What does "sustainability" mean to you? Sustainability is an interesting word because it means so much and it's so big that it's actually kind of difficult to grasp. It's an evolving definition; but the way I utilize the word today is to live my life in a way that takes action with respect toward natural systems, the environment, and all living beings. As someone who promotes sustainability, I am an advocate for life, fairness, and the well-being of things.

Favorite Green Tip: Always look for new ways to be resourceful. Being "green" is all about adaptability and getting creative! I love to repurpose things, so looking on my desk right now, I've reused a bread bag to hold my lunch, put my pencils in an old spaghetti jar, and have a notebook made from single-printed sheets and a cereal box cover.

What are you up to when you aren't at the Sustainability Office? Volunteering at the UCSC-USGS Sea Otter Research Cooperative, gardening at the Live Oak Grange, promoting alternative transportation with Ecology Action, or selling bread at farmer's markets for Beckmann's Old World Bakery

How does sustainability relate to your role at UCSC? What is one cool thing you've done to make UCSC a more sustainable place?
Sustainability was a big part of my undergraduate education. I incorporated it into all aspects of my life. As an RA, I helped start an accredited sustainable living co-curricular residential life program in Stevenson. While leading Path to a Greener Stevenson, I was one of the initial groundbreakers of the Stevenson Community Garden. I also held an internship every quarter with places like the Student Environmental Center, Site Stewardship, and the Seymour Discovery Center. I graduated an Environmental Studies/Biology major in 2011.

As a newly added member to the Sustainability Office staff, my job is to empower students and UCSC affiliates to lead their own projects promoting sustainable practices on our campus to make UCSC a brighter, greener place. I also want to help make sustainability "cultural" by doing my part to create a positive mindset founded in environmental awareness and the interconnectedness of all things.

This year, UCSC's Chancellor Blumenthal has implemented the Chancellor’s Sustainability Challenge to push the campus to reduce our waste, helping us in the long run to reach our Zero Waste by 2020 Goal. How do you practice sustainability and reduce waste in your own life? 
I try to throw away as little as possible. We compost and recycle at my house, so now we're at this point where we are trying to reduce what's ending up in our garbage bin. It's sad when I have to throw something away because there really is no other option for it. To solve this, I have to be more conscious of the types of packaging products come in and make sure that the products themselves are made to last and are repairable rather than made to be replaced.

Have you had a favorite sustainability moment at UCSC?
This year, my favorite 'sustainability moment' happened at the Inter-Organizational Retreat. Realizing how many people on campus are working everyday toward the same goals and aspirations, is definitely empowering. There are literally hundreds of us. I connected to a strong sense of community while watching everyone interact so closely with all these people they've never even met before. It's truly inspiring.

Contact: Find me at the Sustainability Office in Kerr 118, call me at 831-459-2182, or email dkhalafi [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

December 2013: Internships, Employment, & Volunteering

Winter Quarter Internships with the Common Ground Center
The Common Ground Center is currently seeking 2- and 5-unit interns for winter quarter! They are seeking students with skills and/or interest in videography, social media, newsletter and press release writing, and event planning and hosting support. If you are interested in getting involved with the Center in any of these or in other ways, please email them at commonground [at] ucsc [dot] edu. The Center also has a number of courses that provide internship opportunities as part of the class (read more about classes here).

Opportunity for Students Interested in Sustainable Transportation
The Student Environmental Center's Transportation Campaign is seeking a coordinator and 2- or 5- unit interns for winter and spring quarters. The Campaign promotes sustainable transportation at UCSC, including walking, biking, busing, etc. They collaborate with the Bike Library to rent bikes to students each quarter, manage the "Rock the Bike" bike generators, and the possibility of future projects is as expansive as your imagination can explore! For more information, please contact Melissa Ott at mott [at] ucsc [dot] edu or visit the website.

Stevenson Garden Internships
Do you have a passion for gardening and farming? Are you looking for a hands-on rewarding internship? Stevenson Garden is accepting applications for prospective interns for next quarter. For details about the internships offered, please email bredding [at] ucsc [dot] edu.


Arboretum Volunteer Gardening Opportunities
Have an interest in gardening, but don't have time for a gardening internship? The Arboretum has volunteer gardening hours throughout the week. Visit their website for details.

Green Labs Certification Program Seeks New Labs
In the coming weeks, the Green Labs program is outreaching to laboratories on campus that may be interested in becoming a certified Green Lab. The Green Labs committee is asking any representatives from labs that would like to learn more about the certification process to contact them at greenlabs [at] ucsc [dot] edu. The certification process has become more efficient and is a highly rewarding undertaking for laboratories interested in being recognized for their commitment to sustainability. Learn more about the program here.

Environmental Studies Internship Office
Internships are a great way to dip your toes in the water of a field that interests you. Apply beginning winter quarter for internships with the Environmental Studies Internships Office. Email the office at ckrohn [at] ucsc [dot] edu to find an internship that's right for you! Any majors are welcome to get an Environmental Studies Internship. They placed students in more than 400 internships this past year, so there is probably one waiting for you!

Implement Student-Led Sustainable Projects with IDEASS
Do you want professional experience or an opportunity to fulfill senior exit credit through an innovative sustainable design project? Impact Designs: Engineering and Sustainability through Student Service (IDEASS) is looking for a few more passionate and hardworking student leaders to join project teams that are already working to implement projects related to waste reduction, water systems, renewable energy, life cycle analysis, urban planning and more!  Winter admissions to IDEASS requires a winter - spring (2 quarter) commitment. Students can expect to work in interdisciplinary teams with a professional mentor. For more information, or to apply email ideass [at] ucsc [dot] edu and check out the IDEASS website.

Recycling Specialist Position in Livermore, CA
The City of Livermore, California, is seeking a full-time Recycling Specialist who can assist in the development, monitoring, and implementation of the City’s recycling and waste diversion program; research, gather, and interpret data; conduct program outreach; perform inter-disciplinary policy related research; prepare written and verbal reports; represent the City to citizens’ advisory committees or governmental agencies; and more! Learn more and apply online here.

Gaia Environmental Magazine Looking for Interns and Volunteers
Interested in putting together UCSC's environmentally focused magazine next year? The UCSC Environmental Media Project (EMP) offers many quarterly internship and volunteer opportunities. Volunteers help with fundraising, outreach, and the creation of Gaia magazine. Interns take on positions like photographer, editor, and graphic designer for 2 units. For more information about applying, email the team at environmentalmediaproject [at] gmail [dot] com and check out their Facebook page and website.

Volunteer with Take Back the Tap
Water is the life-source and scarcity is our reality. Take Back the Tap (TBtT) is an educational campaign with the goal of removing all single use plastic water bottles from UCSC as a way to combat the commodification of water! Like their Facebook page and learn how you can get involved by emailing takebackthetapucsc [at] gmail [dot] com.

Bike Smart! Youth Bicycle Safety Program Volunteering Opportunity
Bike Smart! encourages youth to bicycle for fun, transportation and health through hands-on bicycle education at local schools. Bike Smart’s bicycle skills "rodeos" (obstacle courses) inspire and empower kids to hop on a bike and leave mom and dad's car at home. Youth of all ages learn essential bicycling knowledge and skills, such as helmet fit, traffic laws, being visible and riding predictably. If you're interested in volunteering with this program for the quarter, please contact Elise at eehrheart [at] ecoact [dot] org.

Apply to Volunteer with Sprout Up
Sprout Up is a non-profit program that looks for undergraduate volunteers to help bring lessons of environmental science and sustainability to local elementary school classrooms. They are college student founded and operated non-profit that is always seeking new instructors. For more information about potential volunteering opportunities with them check out their website.

Internships with WaterLab Research Facility
The WaterLab Research Facility studies wastewater recycling and how to use recycled water to conserve unused water reserves. Though still in progress of becoming a full-fledged research facility, internship opportunities exist and will be expanding as the facility grows. UCSC students can learn more about WaterLab and internships by contacting Eli Weintraub at etweintr [at] ucsc [dot] edu and via the Center for Integrated Water Research website.

Participate in a Field Study with California State University Monterey Bay Wildlands Program
The Wildlands Studies Program offers a series of environmental and cultural ecology field studies this winter/spring. You can choose among six wildlife, wildland and cultural ecology field studies searching for solutions to environmental and cultural challenges. Each program grants 12 upper division transferable units credit. Field studies take place in wildland locations throughout Hawaii, Peru, Thailand, Chile, New Zealand and Costa Rica. All of their programs are described at their website, or their catalog can be sent in the mail. If you have questions about any of their programs, please feel free to email them at wildlands [at] wildlandsstudies [dot] com.

Find or Upload Projects to Sustainability Project Clearinghouse
Interested in getting involved in a campus sustainability project, but don't know how? Are you looking for partners for your current project? Have you completed a project that you would like others to learn from? Visit the Sustainability Project Clearinghouse, a centralized database of UCSC sustainability projects, today! You can view published projects or upload your own projects and ideas. For training on how to upload a project, please contact Shauna Casey at scasey [at] ucsc [dot] edu.

February 2013: Classes, Training, & Community

Join the Kresge Natural Foods Co-op
The Kresge Community Natural Foods Co-op is a non-profit student-run food store located on the south side of Kresge College. It has been a Kresge College tradition for over twenty years, supporting small farmers, the UCSC Farm Project, and the Kresge Organic Garden. While anyone can buy food at the Food Co-op, members receive a discount. The Co-op operates as a collective and a variety of membership options are available. Special pricing is available on bulk orders. Come in for groceries, lunch, snacks, hot coffee, tea, or just to spend time with your friends. Hours: Weekdays 9 AM - 6 PM To contact the Food Co-op, call 426-1506, or attend the bi-weekly meetings every other Sunday at 11 am in the Student Lounge.

Enroll in ESLP for Spring quarter
We invite you to enroll in the Education for Sustainable Living Program’s (ESLP) class for Spring quarter! The Spring class incorporates both 2 and 5 unit student led sections and a Monday Night lecture series. Some section topics include: restoration and ecopsychology, land and habitat conservation, sustainable urban design, green business, vegan cooking, and other topics in the Blueprint for a Sustainable Campus. Sign up through College 8 for CLEI 61 or 161 for Spring Quarter (2-unit and 5 unit options available). 

Garden Market Carts
The garden market cart is a stand created through the collaboration of four different campus gardens (College Eight, Kresge, PICA, and Stevenson) that aims to give out homegrown campus goodies and to educate students and staff about our school's gardens. This quarter, the cart will be at S&E Library on Friday, January 25th, from 10-11:30AM and at McHenry Library on Friday, February 15th from 10-11:30AM to pass out free veggie and herb bundles. Those interested in getting more involved should contact Lidia Tropeano.

Garden Work Days

Want to feel the soil between your hands and help cultivate some growth and community? Garden work days for the campus gardens can be found on our online calendar here.

Heard about other sustainability related classes, trainings, or community opportunities around Santa Cruz or the campus? Post in the comments or send us an email! 

October 2012: Clubs, Gardens, & Hikes

Food Systems Learning Journeys for Fall Quarter

Food Systems Working Group (FSWG) will be coordinating and leading six exciting learning journeys this coming fall through our partnership with OPERS and the Recreation Office.  To find out more about the FSWG learning journeys and sign-up, go to the Recreation website for more info. You can begin signing up for recreation activities on October 2.

Arboretum Gardening Days

The Arboretum has gardening many days of the week in different gardens. If you're interested in volunteering in the Arboretum gardens, please click here to learn more.

Arboretum Garden Tours - 1st Saturdays 11 AM
Join a docent-led tour on the first Saturday of the month. The tour is free with your Arboretum admission. Tours start at 11 AM in front of Norrie's Gift Shop. Find out more about what's going on at the Arboretum by clicking here.

Arboretum Community Day - 1st Tuesdays
The first Tuesday of every month, visit the Arboretum for free! Typically, admission to the Arboretum is $5.00 ($2.00 for children, free to Arboretum Associates, UCSC students with valid ID, and volunteers). Find out more about what's going on at the Arboretum by clicking here.

Friends of Community Agroecology Network - Tuesdays 6-8 PM

FoCAN is a student-initiated, student-led community at UCSC that supports CAN's mission of promoting rural livelihoods and sustainable food systems through action education and participatory action research. They meet Tuesdays from 6-8 PM in building A3 of the Village. Find out more about FoCAN here.

Natural History Club - Meeting times TBD
The Natural History Club is all about exploring the natural spaces on and around our beautiful campus. They go on hikes around campus, learning about its natural history. They focus on learning plants, birds, animal tracking, mushrooms, and anything they discover. Overall the club seeks to deepen members' understanding, awareness and connection with nature. Visit the Natural History Club Facebook group for meeting times, locations and more information. Meeting times will be determined once the Fall quarter starts.

Downtown Santa Cruz Farmers' Market - Wednesdays 

Eating locally grown food reduces your carbon footprint and supports the local economy. Purchasing your food through the area’s farmers’ markets ensures that you are getting the freshest, healthiest and tastiest foods while supporting local jobs, increasing local spending and promoting the region’s strong farming tradition. Check out the Downtown Santa Cruz Farmers' Market, and learn more, including hours and locations, here.

Student Environmental Center - Wednesdays 5:30-7:30 PM

The purpose of the Student Environmental Center is to promote student involvement through research, education, and implementation of environmentally sustainable practices on campus in collaboration with the university. SEC's General Gatherings take place in the College 8 Red Room. Vegetarian dinner provided. For more information, visit their website or send them an email.

Path to a Greener Stevenson - Tuesdays 9 PM

Path to a Greener Stevenson (PTAGS) meets in the Stevenson House 2 lounge. PTAGS is an environmentally conscious group of staff and students whose aim is to implement change towards sustainability through projects within our community. They see the Stevenson community as an environment to encourage students to turn their innovative thoughts into action. This year, Stevenson residents received reusable hand towels (pictured above) largely thanks to the works of students in PTAGS. For more information including the Fall meeting time, visit the Facebook group or email Blake Redding.

Gardeners' Alliance Gatherings
The Gardeners' Alliance is a group within SEC's Students for Organic campaign that works to  promote the campus gardens and unite the garden-friendly community by creating a space to promote and share information between campus gardeners and the students of UCSC. To see a list of on-campus gardens and find out more, visit the Gardeners' Alliance website here.

Stevenson Garden Work Days - Time TBD

If you would like to volunteer and get involved with the Stevenson Garden, they will be having work days during Fall quarter (dates TBD)! To learn more about the Garden, check out the website, Facebook group, or email Blake Redding.

Kresge Garden Work Days - Check calendar for garden hours
Join fellow gardeners at the Kresge Garden workday and workshop every Sunday! Bring a dish to share for the potluck lunch! To see what the weekly workshop will be, check out the website.

Seymour Center Offers Guided Tours on the Santa Cruz Wharf - Saturday & Sunday, 1 PM & 3 PM
In collaboration with the City of Santa Cruz, UCSC's Seymour Marine Discovery Center is now leading free 30-minute public tours on the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf every Saturday and Sunday at 1 and 3 p.m. The Seymour Center's marine science interpreters are also available between tours to answer questions about the variety of wildlife visible at the wharf. Find out more here.

Are you part of a sustainability club, hiking, or gardening group not listed here? Have you participated in any of the above groups? Tell us about it in the comments or send us an email!

September 2012: Clubs, Gardens, & Hikes

Food Systems Learning Journeys for Fall Quarter

Food Systems Working Group (FSWG) will be coordinating and leading six exciting learning journeys this coming fall through our partnership with OPERS and the Recreation Office.  To find out more about our learning journeys and sign-up, go to the Recreation website for more info.

Volunteer in the Arboretum Eucalyptus Grove - Mondays 9 AM
Help out the Arboretum at UC Santa Cruz as a volunteer in the Eucalyptus Grove. The group meets on Mondays from 9 AM until noon in the Eucalyptus Grove, opposite Western Drive. Parking is available in the Grove for these Monday morning work parties. Please bring hat, gloves, water, and layers of clothing. Tools will be provided. Find out more here.

Arboretum Garden Tours - 1st Saturdays 11 AM
Join a docent-led tour on the first Saturday of the month. The tour is free with your Arboretum admission. Tours start at 11 AM in front of Norrie's Gift Shop. Find out more about what's going on at the Arboretum by clicking here.

Arboretum Community Day - 1st Tuesdays
The first Tuesday of every month, visit the Arboretum for free! Typically, admission to the Arboretum is $5.00 ($2.00 for children, free to Arboretum Associates, UCSC students with valid ID, and volunteers). Find out more about what's going on at the Arboretum by clicking here.

Natives First Gardeners at the Arboretum - Tuesdays 9 AM
This weeding group was formed to help with the Entrance Native Garden at the Arboretum on Tuesday mornings at 9 AM. Enjoy a friendly group, and get involved in beautifying this ongoing project while enjoying the beauty of the California Native collection. Bring gloves, water, and sun protection. For more information, click here.

Kiwi Gardeners at Arboretum - Tuesdays 9:30 AM
Join this weeding and pruning group that meets every Tuesday morning 9:30 AM - 12:30 PM. Get involved enhancing the beauty of the New Zealand garden. Bring gloves and smiles. We provide the Kiwi vibe. Hope to see you mate, cheers!

Friends of Community Agroecology Network - Tuesdays 6-8 PM

FoCAN is a student-initiated, student-led community at UCSC that supports CAN's mission of promoting rural livelihoods and sustainable food systems through action education and participatory action research. Join FoCAN for their end-of-the-year celebration on Tuesday, June 5, to have a potluck and celebrate FoCAN and the community they have fostered throughout the quarter. The celebration will take place at the Sustainable Living Center in the Village, building A. Find out more about FoCAN here.

Natural History Club - Meeting times TBD
The Natural History Club is all about exploring the natural spaces on and around our beautiful campus. They go on hikes around campus, learning about its natural history. They focus on learning plants, birds, animal tracking, mushrooms, and anything they discover. Overall the club seeks to deepen members' understanding, awareness and connection with nature. Visit the Natural History Club Facebook group for meeting times, locations and more information. Meeting times will be determined once the Fall quarter starts.

Downtown Santa Cruz Farmers' Market - Wednesdays

Eating locally grown food reduces your carbon footprint and supports the local economy. Purchasing your food through the area’s farmers’ markets ensures that you are getting the freshest, healthiest and tastiest foods while supporting local jobs, increasing local spending and promoting the region’s strong farming tradition. Check out the Downtown Santa Cruz Farmers' Market, and learn more, including hours and locations, here. Check out this article about 8 Foods You Should Always Buy at the Farmers' Market.

Student Environmental Center - Wednesdays 6:30-8:30 PM

The purpose of the Student Environmental Center is to promote student involvement through research, education, and implementation of environmentally sustainable practices on campus in collaboration with the university. SEC's General Gatherings take place in the College 8 Red Room. Vegetarian dinner provided. For more information, visit their website or send them an email.

Aussie Weeders at Arboretum - Thursdays 9 AM
This rousing group gathers 9 AM on Thursday mornings. The Australian Collections beam from their attention, and the garden visitors enjoy laughter and joy that is the Aussie Weeders.

Path to a Greener Stevenson - Meeting time TBD

PTAGS at Earth Summit 2012

Path to a Greener Stevenson (PTAGS) meets in the Stevenson House 2 lounge. PTAGS is an environmentally conscious group of staff and students whose aim is to implement change towards sustainability through projects within our community. They see the Stevenson community as an environment to encourage students to turn their innovative thoughts into action. For more information, visit the Facebook group or email Blake Redding.

Gardeners' Alliance Gatherings
The Gardeners' Alliance is a group within SEC's Students for Organic campaign that works to  promote the campus gardens and unite the garden-friendly community by creating a space to promote and share information between campus gardeners and the students of UCSC. To see a list of on-campus gardens and find out more, visit the Gardeners' Alliance website here.

Stevenson Garden Work Days - TBD

Stevenson Garden, photographed in summer 2012

If you would like to volunteer and get involved with the Stevenson Garden, they will be having work days during Fall quarter (dates TBD)! To learn more about the Garden, check out the website, Facebook page, or email Blake Redding.

Kresge Garden Work Days - Sundays 10 AM - 2 PM 

Amaranth, photographed at the Kresge Garden in Fall 2010

Join fellow gardeners at the Kresge Garden workday and workshop every Sunday! Bring a dish to share for the potluck lunch! To see what the weekly workshop will be, check out the website.

Seymour Center Offers Guided Tours on the Santa Cruz Wharf - Saturday & Sunday, 1 PM & 3 PM

In collaboration with the City of Santa Cruz, UCSC's Seymour Marine Discovery Center is now leading free 30-minute public tours on the Santa Cruz Municipal Wharf every Saturday and Sunday at 1 and 3 p.m. The Seymour Center's marine science interpreters are also available between tours to answer questions about the variety of wildlife visible at the wharf. Find out more here.

June 2012: Contests, Funding & Journal Submissions

Sustainability Office Simply Committed Photo Challenge
The Simply Committed Photo Challenge is up and running on our Facebook page! Many of you have already made a pledge on our page to change one habit in your lives to become more sustainable either at Earth Summit or Earth Day. Some examples of pledges that were made by students were to bring reusable bags to the store, buy local, ride a bike and walk more often instead of driving or taking the bus, and to eat more organic food. Those of you that have not already made a pledge--it is not too late! Post your pledge right now! The photo challenge involves taking a funny picture engaging in the sustainable commitment that you made. The more ridiculous and comical the better! The challenge will last till June 8 and the winner will be randomly chosen and announced on June 9! The winner will receive a $30 gift card to the Bay Tree Bookstore. You can post your pictures right onto the UCSC Sustainability Office page, or if you do not use Facebook and want to participate, you can email them to the Sustainability Office! The contest is open to all UCSC students, staff, and faculty. Good luck and have fun!

Gaia Magazine Seeking New Team Members

Gaia Magazine is seeking people interested in layout, writing, editing, and sustainability to join the team for next year (leadership positions available!).  Please contact the Gaia Team, or check out the website for more information--no previous experience required!  Be sure to pick up your copy of the 2012 issue, found in libraries, cafes, housing offices, mailrooms, and other locations on campus.




Stevenson Garden Art Display Seeking Artists
Are you an artist who would like to display your work in a garden? Have friends who might be interested? The Stevenson Garden is now accepting submissions for artwork to display in the garden! Email Elisha Kim with your ideas and if you need supplies!

Fulbright NEXUS Regional Scholar Program - Deadline June 15
The 2012-2013 Fulbright NEXUS Program, a model for scholarly exchange and science informing policy, is currently seeking applications from early or mid-career academics, applied researchers and/or professionals with research experience in the public, nonprofit or private sector in the topics of science, technology and innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable energy. Applicants must be conducting current research relevant to these themes. Projects focusing on climate change adaptation strategies, and/or public policy focused research ventures that examine strategies to cope with climate variability are particularly welcome. The deadline to apply is June 15.

Smart Growth Network Call for Papers: Community Design - Deadline June 30
The higher education community is invited to join the Smart Growth Network's (SGN) first national conversation about how neighborhoods could be planned, designed and developed to meet the needs of current and future generations. In an effort to build a compendium of new and innovative ideas, SGN is seeking short papers that discuss a particular issue that communities will be facing in the next 15 years. Twenty to 40 papers will be selected for publishing in anticipation of the 2013 New Partners for Smart Growth Conference. The published papers will be considered for inclusion in the open and/or closing plenaries of the conference. Papers will be accepted through June 30, 2012.

Accepting Applications: AASHE 2012 Awards Program - Deadline July 2
AASHE invites applications for its 2012 sustainability awards. AASHE will present four Campus Sustainability Case Study Awards, one Student Sustainability Leadership Award, two Student Research on Campus Sustainability Awards and one Faculty Leadership Award. All winners will be announced at the AASHE 2012 conference and will be featured in Sustainability: The Journal of Record. Applications will be accepted through July 2.

Call for Papers: Mathematics of Planet Earth Special Issue - Deadline December 20
Submissions are sought for the November 2013 issue of the College Mathematics Journal, which will be devoted to the "Mathematics of Planet Earth." Papers that address the mathematical aspects of climate, meteorology, ecology, epidemiology, resource management and biodiversity are encouraged. Areas of human interaction with the earth are also of interest including economics, finance, politics, communication, sustainable development and disaster management. Classroom capsules and student research projects are welcome. Authors are encouraged to write the editor,  describing their proposed paper first, and submissions will be accepted through December 20, 2012.