Education

The Learning Gardens Laboratory (LGL) in Portland, Oregon, is a hub of diverse educational activities, fostering learning at all levels. For K-12 students, LGL offers hands-on field trips, immersing them in the world of ecology and sustainable agriculture. These visits provide opportunities to plant, harvest, and learn about the life cycles of plants, connecting classroom learning with real-world experiences.

University students benefit from LGL’s role as a living laboratory. Courses in sustainable agriculture, ecological design, and environmental education utilize the gardens and farm as a practical learning space. Students gain hands-on experience in organic gardening techniques, composting, and other regenerative practices, bridging theory with practical application.

Beyond formal education, LGL engages the wider community through workshops, volunteer opportunities, and community garden plots. Workshops cover topics like seed saving, composting, and growing specific types of produce, empowering individuals to cultivate their own food. Volunteering allows community members to contribute to LGL’s operations while learning valuable skills and connecting with others. Community garden plots provide space for individuals and groups to grow their own food, fostering a sense of ownership and connection to the land.

LGL’s educational approach emphasizes experiential learning, encouraging participants to actively engage with the natural world. By fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and a sense of stewardship, LGL cultivates a deeper understanding of the interconnectedness of ecological and social systems, empowering individuals to become informed and engaged citizens.

Read about PSU Programming, K-12 Programming, Professional Development, & Community Offerings