Students part of Upstate's Community Garden Initiative

Now in its third year, the Upstate Community Garden is tended by our students. Fourth-year medical student Giancarlo Rondash, a former chef, has led the student involvement in the project from the beginning. The Community Garden is a collaborative effort championed by Thomas Pelis, assistant vice president for facilities & planning. Pelis is chair of Upstate's Sustainability Task Force, and a veteran gardener.

In exchange for their sweat equity during the growing season, students and some employees reap the benefits at harvest time. Any student interested in helping out should e-mail Giancarlo at rondashg@upstate.edu.

The 30-foot by 40-foot garden has raised beds surrounded by a fence. Its offerings include potatoes, beans, lettuce, beets, radishes, tomatoes, peas, peppers and kale.

Giancarlo said the garden offers a way for Upstate students to relax and better handle the stress of school as well as have a convenient supply of nutritious food. "For me this is relaxing, and it's nice to come here and get your hands dirty," he said.