2 - FGCU Campus walk

FGCU CAMPUS WALK:

Before starting this course, I did not know the extent of the trails that surround the Florida Gulf Coast Campus. Before walking the trails, I decided to do some research at the FGCU library. While reading about the campus, I learned that over 400 of FGCU's 760 acre campus is land that is being conserved. Driving by the campus, you can also see the solar panels. I researched the panels as well and learned that the solar panels, visible from Ben Hill Griffin, contribute to 85% of 3 of the buildings on campus' electricity,

If we look at the definition of eco-empowerment, yes, the campus walk is consistent with the mission of the university, it is a trail that exhibits the diverse and changing environment of South West Florida. The empowerment comes more from the research of the trail and its surrounding assets. 

I can't say I went into touring this trail with any expectations. I was surprised that the trail was not maintained better. With all of the students at FGCU needing service learning hours, cleaning up this trail would be a great way to meet their expected hours. I also found that entering the trail alone was not a good idea. What should have been a short tour, turned into a few hours of trying to find my way back! I thought that the trail would be outlined better. Being from up north, I am used to hiking, but also used to a clearly marked trail.

(Something to think about!)