From the Ames Community School District 

By Kathy Hanson

Some students studying environmental science with teacher Mike Todd are taking what they’re learning about sustainable life practices beyond the walls of Ames High School.

Their art show, entitled “Lexicon of Sustainability,” consists of 24 pictures in frames as “pop-up art” to draw attention to sustainable ways of growing food and supporting a locally-focused economy.

The students received a $500 grant for supplies, and agreed to show their work to audiences in at least five locations. Their next presentation will be from noon to 2 p.m. Saturday, at the Iowa Farmers Union Convention in the Sun Room of the Iowa State University Memorial Union.

Payton Nowlin, one of the student organizers, said the project has helped her understand what’s at stake in choosing to produce and consume more local resources.

“I know now I can buy things to help my community and so resources last longer,” she said. We hope this project draws people who are interested in sustainability who will learn more about it.”