By Charlotte Brookins 

Student-operated gardens are expanding to the east side of the UI campus.  

The first garden was created in 2009 as a learning resource for Hawkeyes, and a method to demonstrate safe and sustainable food and lifestyle practices. Over the past five years, discussions have been held between the Office of Sustainability and the Environment, Student Life and Landscape Services with students involved in the organization DIRT, or Determined Gardeners Incorporating Radical Farming at the University of Iowa. 

Stratis Giannakorous, director of the UI Office of Sustainability and the Environment, which is housed in the College of Liberal Arts and Sciences, says students desired a more centrally located garden beyond the Hawkeye Commuter Lot on the outskirts of campus.  

“Having a footprint of a big garden in the middle of campus is challenging, so we found a workable solution with modular, smaller gardens,” he explains.  

The garden units can be found spread across the east side of campus, with one location at North Hall and two more outside the Chemistry Building. These three locations are the starting point with a goal to eventually create more miniature gardens allowing for increased accessibility.  

Esmee Belzer, fourth-year student double majoring in chemistry and statistics, is the current co-president of DIRT. She has been heavily involved with the expansion project.  

“I am so proud to have been a part of such an interesting, thought-provoking initiative which will bring substantial awareness to campus regarding sustainability, food sovereignty, and involvement in the local food system,” Belzer says.  

The large gardens on the west side will remain, but the smaller east side locations will be used for engagement and education. Those passing by can pick the produce while learning about the environment and what it looks like to garden in an urban landscape.  

To learn more about the student gardens and its mission, visit the Office of Sustainability website.