boinc projects washington university in st louis

Not using your computer at the moment? You can now donate your computer's idle time to cutting-edge biomedical research aimed at finding a cure for the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV), Parkinson's, arthritis, breast cancer, and other major diseases. More information and tips on creating a sustainable landscape are available online. They are something that feeds our soul,” she said.Ĭooking that soul food can require a change in mindset and a willingness to forgo your lawn looking like a grounds crew sits at the ready just behind your fence.

A joint project conducted by students, faculty and staff developed a sustainable landscape around the new building, complete with placards documenting what was done and why. Rain gardens laid out in lower-lying areas with plants that thrive in wet soil, collect runoff and can look beautiful.īy way of example, Barton showcased the rain garden just outside the University Visitors’ Center, where the session was held. Rainwater, another free item, can also benefit from a bit of good management.

“Just think of the forest floor, there is no better soil than that.” “You can’t just leave fallen leaves on your lawn, but you can rake them into your landscape beds or till them into your vegetable garden,” she said. Fallen leaves make the most effective compost of all. Compost, for example, is free, and does not just pertain to your kitchen waste. Echoing and enabling that change makes for a sustainable landscape.īarton says some of the best changes to make are some of the simplest and most affordable. In spring it is painted in pastels that eventually cede to the earthier tones of fall. A garden looks different by the light of the early morning sun compared to the glare of midday. “Change is a part of the natural landscape all the time,” Barton told the group, “When you think about sustainability, it is not about resisting change but how do we adapt?”Ĭhange happens as time progresses, she said. Every plant has its place, wood mulch is abundant and pride is taken in blades of grass trimmed to look as pristine as a baseball field. The well-manicured lawns of suburbia represent unsustainable landscapes. Barton dispensed this and other tips at the College of Agriculture and Natural Resources showcase Saturday, which outlined the fundamentals of sustainable home landscaping.īarton says mowing just the part of your property you regularly use is one way to create a sustainable landscape, one where biodiversity thrives, where birds, animals, humans and even insects co-exist in harmony. Most homeowners will be happy to hear the advice of UD Extension Specialist Susan Barton – stop mowing your lawn so much. Following are reports from the showcases:Ĭollege of Agriculture and Natural Resources

Boinc projects washington university in st louis