March 8 - 15, 2015  |  Apply Now  

Food is both a biological and cultural imperative. Thus it plays a myriad of roles in our personal lives, as well as our ecosystems and our economy. Food choices do make an impact, but beyond the simplicity of consumer behavior lies an exploration of a food system that is at once centralized and dispersed, efficient and ineffective, utterly destructive and inspiringly regenerative. Food and water have always shaped human and animal settlements. Our ability to procure these basic necessities from far away places has made us both more secure and more vulnerable. 

Session One addresses  the impacts that various farming and food distribution models have had on New York City, and examines our world-famous unfiltered water system. 

Itinerary
In order to remain current and introduce you to the most exciting experts working on the most innovative up-to-date projects, we do not finalize the schedule of readings and meetings until shortly before the start of the program. The following schedule is subject to changes.

SUNDAY: New York City Ecosystem
• An introduction to New York City and its essential components.  Explore the demographics, economics, industries, neighborhoods, green spaces, and waterways through an urban hike.

MONDAY – FRIDAY: Farming and Land Stewardship
• Every morning, participants work with the Bed-Stuy Campaign Against Hunger at their urban farm and food bank.

MONDAY: How Food and Water Shape New York
• Visit Hunts Point Wholesale Market to see how the majority of food enters the city. 
• Shop at a farmers market to explore the benefits and problems associated with alternative food systems. 

TUESDAY: Urban Foraging
• Learn about, collect, prepare, and preserve food that is free and readily available in New York City parks and hedgerows. 

WEDNESDAY: Recovering Food Waste
• Take part in a dumpster dive with local freegan activists. 

THURSDAY: Regional Water Infrastructure
• Tour Newtown Creek Wastewater Treatment Plant and learn about the unfiltered water supply system that brings Catskills water to New Yorkers every day. 

FRIDAY: Building-Scale Water Reclamation
• Take a behind-the-scenes tour of a new LEED-certified residential development in Battery Park City with architect Zach Gallagher, LEED AP and Vice President of Natural Systems Utilities. 

SATURDAY: Final Project
• Work with local artists, educators, and activists on a direct action that actualizes the ideas generated throughout the week in a way that positively impacts both the space in which it is situated and the discourse that it pertains to. 
• Enjoy a group dinner at one of New York City's amazing farm-to-table restaurants. 

SUNDAY: Program Evaluations and Personal Reflections
 
 
Download the full Eco Practicum NYC Syllabus