On an unseasonably warm fall afternoon, 16 students from Community College of Denver (CCD) and Metropolitan State University Denver (MSU Denver) spent the afternoon at Larimer Uprooted, an urban farm that sits atop of a parking garage in the heart of downtown Denver.

The students, who are part of the Associate of Applied Science (A.A.S.) pathway in nutrition, were on a field trip to learn about urban gardening, sustainability, and the health benefits of growing your own food.

Larimer Uprooted farm manager, Mike Spade, instructed the students about implementing green roofs and raised beds in order to grow fruits and vegetables. He also spoke about the challenge that Larimer Uprooted had with finding the right “recipe” for soil that would promote the most plant growth.

The students were encouraged to dig into the soil with their hands and experience its texture and moisture. He shared with them about the best types of soil for the Denver climate. Then they added soil to some of the plots and after their work was completed, they enjoyed a kale and raspberry salad while listening to a discussion about nutrition.

CCD offers students one of three pathways in nutrition. Students can start with a three-course certificate in Food, Nutrition and Wellness or start the 16 credit certificate to become a Certified Dietary Manager (direct to work certificate), and then students continue on to earn an A.A.S. degree in Nutrition, which seamlessly transfers to MSU Denver where they complete a four-year degree and prepare for career opportunities.

Learn more about CCD’s Health and Wellness programs at ccd.edu/Nutrition