SWAN DC invites you to a special opportunity to learn about sustainable agricultural practices and experience ECO-City Farm, a thriving urban farm. The event will include a guided tour of the main farm, a hands on vermi (worm) culture demonstration and a catered "zero waste lunch," featuring a panel discussion with food waste policy and composting experts, including PG County Sierra Club Chair, Martha Ainsworth (SAIS '81), moderated by Sarah Colon (SAIS '00).

Following a tasty and informative lunch, you will have the opportunity to get your hands dirty by participating in a vermicomposting hands-on workshop led by Rodale Institute-trained vermicomposter Linda Norris-Waldt. Up to 10 attendees will even have chance to take home a composting bin!

After the event, you will understand why food-waste matters, what is happening locally and nationally, the ethics and politics behind it, and how composting (and we!) can help. There may even be a chance to tour ECO-City Farm’s nearby composting facility!

Featured Panelists Include:

• Brenda Platt, Co-Director, Institute for Self-Reliant Living (ISRL), ILSR's Composting for Community Project Leader
  

• Martha Ainsworth, (SAIS’81), Former World Bank public health expert and Chair of the Prince George's Sierra Club Group
  
• · Susan Eisendrath, MPH, Master Gardener and co-Chair of the Montgomery County Food Council Environmental Impact Working Group
  

• Steven Birchfield, Field Operations Supervisor of PG County's Organic Compost Facility
  

Catered lunch will be provided by Green Plates catering. Dessert will be donated by Lydia La Ferla, SAIS '86, a conscious cooking advocate and Special Program Director for Via Umbria, Georgetown

Event Details:

-Will take place rain or shine.
-SAIS Alumni and their family members are welcome.
-Check your order confirmation email for a link to start or join a carpool.