The inevitable question after watching this video: what are these men doing in trees with gardening tools?

 

The answer: bringing springtime to Columbia University.

 

The trees that line College Walk, the main throughway of campus, are a symbol of the seasons. Each December, a ceremonial tree lighting ceremony (complete with hot cocoa, singing a cappella groups and free cookies) marks the holiday season and the beginning of winter. The trees stay lit with thousands of brilliantly string lights throughout the winter (my theory is that it's to prevent the students from becoming too depressed about the cold weather).

 

So, imagine my surprise when, while walking to do some errands on my first (rainy, cold) day of spring break, I find that the lights on the trees are disappearing. Spring is here, and it came fast.

 

The spring, for me, brings an entirely new appreciation of my immediate environment. I've heard lore of the beauty of Central Park once the weather warms up, and can't wait to explore all the fresh options at the Union Square Greenmarket. I'm also considering a share with the West Harlem CSA.

 

Most importantly, however, spring brings free time, which is a key ingredient in environmental stewardship and appreciation, particularly for college students. After classes end in May, I can refocus my sustainability efforts while hopefully finding some time to go camping or explore the "urban" wildlife of the city.

 

I'm excited. Aren't you?