United States of America

Rewilding College Campuses

Growing up in Hawai’i, Mackenzie Feldman saw firsthand the beauty of the natural world and the importance of protecting it. But it wasn’t until she became a college student that she was presented with an opportunity to make a difference when it came to protecting the environment.

Mackenzie learned about pesticides back in Hawai’i, where agrobusiness tests a lot of the genetically modified corn seeds’ resistance to pesticides, thereby exposing a lot of the people living nearby. This inspired her to study Society and Environment and Food Systems, and learn about alternative ways we could be growing food . She was also on the college beach volleyball team and was told by her coach not to chase the ball if it went off the court because the grass was sprayed with an herbicide. She was shocked to discover that these chemicals were being used on college campuses across the country, including her own.

Determined to make a difference, Mackenzie decided to take action. She worked with the groundskeeper to find a solution–they would stop spraying pesticides if she and her teammates would pull weeds.

Encouraged by her success, Mackenzie and her teammate Bridget decided to take her campaign to other campuses around the country. She founded a nonprofit organization called Re:wild Your Campus, which advocates for the elimination of herbicides and a transition to organic land care on college campuses. She has now worked with seven college campuses. When a college shifts to organic land care, it benefits everyone. It reduces exposure to harmful chemicals for groundskeepers while promoting healthier soil and ecosystems through natural, sustainable practices.

Thanks to Mackenzie’s hard work and dedication, Re:wild YourCampus has helped to reduce the use of pesticides on college campuses across the country. Her efforts have also inspired other activists to take up the cause and work towards a healthier, more sustainable future.

Mackenzie reminds us to “start small, find our passion, and gather our community.” Her story shows us that all of us can make a difference. We must celebrate every win, no matter how small, and remember to enjoy the land we are working so hard to protect. By following your passion and taking action, you can help to create a better world for everyone.

Why Is This Important?

Pesticides are chemicals designed to kill pests, but they also harm other organisms such as humans, animals, and plants. Exposure to pesticides has been linked to a range of health problems, including cancer, neurological disorders, and reproductive issues.

Pesticides also contaminate soil, air, and water, leading to environmental damage and the loss of biodiversity. By using natural pest management methods, we can protect human health, preserve the environment, and promote sustainable agriculture.

What Can You Do?

Consider these tips:

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Personal

There are simple ways to change how you care for your yard that are better for both people and the planet. Start by trying to minimize the use of harmful pesticides and exploring natural alternatives. For example, instead of using weed killer chemicals to remove weeds from around your neighborhood, try using boiled water instead. You can take it a step further by allowing your own yard to “rewild”, allowing the ecosystem to flourish without intervention. You will be surprised at the new plant species that return to your yard!

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Community

Work alongside neighbors and community members to rewild spaces in your neighborhood and advocate for your town to avoid the use of pesticides in public spaces like parks. Consider telling 1-2 of your neighbors about the benefits of letting nature grow wild today!

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Share Your Ideas

Have you or someone you know done something in your community to promote rewilding? What new flowers or pollinators have you discovered? We would love to hear from you! Please send your story to engage@daughtersforearth.org. You can support all Daughters by donating below.

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