A few days ago, on Oct. 2, the Brandeis Food Forest (BFF) had its grand opening. After being originally scheduled for a week prior, a nor’easter pushed the event back to what turned out to be the perfect day. With live music, volunteer opportunities, and a rock painting station, the opening was buzzing with activity. In case you’re wondering what and where the food forest is, fear not! This article will go into all things BFF.
The vibe at the grand opening was so fun and chill, with lots of coming and going throughout the day. The weather was perfect and people were going on and off the swing, snapping photos, and enjoying time with their friends.
Located on the plot of land with the swing behind Schwartz-Brown, the space was recently converted into a garden type area by the Students for Environmental Action (SEA). As a student led initiative, all of the land preparation and gardening was done by student volunteers.
I had the opportunity to speak with SEA president, Rebecca Rappaport, and she explained that “the goal of the food forest is to create a sustainable, edible ecosystem on campus and to promote community engagement by providing a fun place for students to gather!” She also said that the space would be used as an educational space, beyond just as a habitat for wildlife and place for food.
An outdoor gathering spot adds an element of livelihood and joy to Brandeis’ campus, and being in nature is scientifically beneficial for you. Why choose this specific spot, though? This area had been largely unused, and with the swing, already had a calming and fun vibe. Rappaport shared that “this was an idea that we have had for a while and began working on it almost two years ago. The idea stemmed from a desire to bring biodiversity into the Brandeis community in a way that people could enjoy.”
I was also very curious as to what was actually being grown there. I was surprised to learn that, despite its small space, the BFF is supporting “around 70 plants either already planted or in the works of being planted, thanks to the help our Eboard members have put in.” Naturally, all the species are native to this region in order to best support local ecology and restore the depleted soil.
While there are currently no plans to supply the harvest to campus dining halls, Rappaport noted that “it’s definitely a possibility in the future as the food forest continues to grow and expand!”
Do your part and stop by the food forest today!
