Themester

In the coming days, two Themester events will explore "Seeds of Resilience." This two-part series looks at the sustainable practice of seed saving.

Seed saving is central to food system resilience. Food system resilience is directly linked to plant diversity, which in turn is connected to a reliable and broadly accessible seed supply.

"As climate fluctuations become more prevalent, seed saving allows us to observe which varieties of plants are more resilient to weather draught," said Dr. Olga Kalentzidou, lecturer in the Department of Geography and the organizer of the two events. "In the process of collecting and processing seeds, we observe our natural environment and appreciate the importance of diversity in our food supply. On a more gustatory level, seed saving allow us to experiment and save varieties that fit our cultural and personal food preferences."

Seed preservation and re-distribution are the primary means through which communities support and protect their ecosystems and strengthen their ties to their communal past. The practice, especially among disenfranchised and racially targeted groups, also can reclaim the group’s historical and cultural roots.

The events in "Seeds of Resilience" are:

“Seeds, Democracy, and Resilience,” a talk by Panagiotis Sainatoudis
Wednesday, September 22, 1:10 p.m.
online

Panagiotis Sainatoudis is the founder of Peliti, an organization in Greece that facilitates the sharing of seeds.

"Seed Preservation," a conversation and workshop with Seed Savers Exchange
Thursday, September 23, 4:00 p.m.
Hilltop Garden and Nature Center

Dr. Philip Kauth, director of Preservation at Seeds Savers Exchange, will discuss stewardship of Americaʼs culturally diverse and endangered garden and food crop legacy for current and future generations.