By Cindy Venegas
As a child, I learned many stories from history, but one that stood out and inspired me, was about a boy named Johnny Appleseed, who planted thousands of apple orchards throughout different states in the early 19th Century.
Little did I know, it was based on the life of a generous and kindhearted orchardist and nurseryman, John Chapman, who planted many trees along in the Midwest for settlers, Native Americans and animals to eat or use to make cider.
Recently, I have heard of many foundations with missions aligned with that of Johnny Appleseed’s, but instead donate fruit trees to public areas and schools.
Their efforts are to help save the planet, while also benefitting those who have access to the trees’ fruits.
In addition, trees are natural purifiers that absorb pollutants in the air while also producing clean oxygen. This would do CSUDH some good, since we live in a city that is home to a large oil refinery.
Additionally, university students are always on the go, which makes it hard to maintain a healthy diet.
I’m sure many of you can empathize and know what it’s like. Not only is it about eating healthy, but it’s about eating when you are supposed to.
Having fruit trees planted across campus would help students like myself maintain healthy habits and prevent hunger, which can sometimes distract us in class.
I recently came across an article that described an art project that consisted of planting fruit trees in public areas, like Los Angeles City College. After two years of maintenance the trees became drought-resistant, with some bearing fruit within a couple of months.
Students could take the fruit and share with others since there was a sign stating the fruit belonged to everyone.
In my opinion, creating a project like this on campus would help students financially, promote a healthier lifestyle, provide options for vegetarians and vegans and help save the environment.
