Globalization of Coastal Roots: A School-based Urban and Coastal Plant Nursery and Stewardship Program - Challenges and Success

Globalization of a domestic program to South America raised many challenges. Language barriers were overcome by including colleagues fluent in both Spanish and the culture of Chile. School calendars were opposite of Louisiana schools allowing for student exchanges and teacher collaboration. Administrative support between elementary schools, middle, and high schools proved to be beneficial. Service learning opportunities for upper grades to work with 1^st graders were widely appreciated. Nursery construction methods were initially a challenge due to a difference in metric and English pipe sizes and other plumbing supplies. Our first nursery was primarily shipped from Louisiana to Chile with few exceptions. Cost of shipping and getting items through customs raised many challenges. Eventually we were able to find most of our supplies in Chile at a local supply house. Translating the name of the components for the nursery was difficult during the first nursery installation. This was alleviated by compiling a list of materials with both English and Spanish names and pictures of each item. Cost of materials were at least 50% greater when purchased locally, but these costs were cheaper than shipping. We now carry essential components not found in Santiago for the nursery in our carry-on luggage. The complexity of making local arrangements and plans was facilitated by using Skype and using a liaison acquainted with the local schools. The students at the four schools in Santiago and Concepcion, Chile, are the highlight of our efforts. Students were enthusiastic and willing to learn how they could make a positive impact in their communities. Teachers and administrators have become part of a global community sharing their knowledge and local connections. Faculty and graduate students at the University of Concepcion have become engaged in the program assisting with recommendations, seed donations and planting sites. Cooperative research efforts are currently being planned. This summer we are preparing the first Chilean teacher workshop in Santiago, Chile. A current LSU graduate student is completing a Spanish version of our Coastal Roots program manual. She is a former graduate from a participating high school in Concepcion, Chile. This will greatly expand the effectiveness of our program in Spanish speaking countries. The expansion of Coastal Roots has broadened not only this program, but the minds and opportunities for each of our participants.