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Ryan Witzig's avatar

Ryan Witzig

Heartland College Fall 2020 EASC111

POINTS TOTAL

  • 0 TODAY
  • 0 THIS WEEK
  • 84 TOTAL

Ryan's actions

Food

Try a New Way to Prep

I will try a new method of food preparation, such as canning, pickling, or baking bread.

UNCOMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Nature

Explore My Area

I will explore at least one new hiking trail or nature walk in my area.

UNCOMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Food

Plant an Herb Garden

I will plant an herb garden in my home, workplace, or dorm room.

UNCOMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Health

Support Pollution Reduction

I will spend at least 30 minutes learning about water and air quality issues in my area, how they are impacting human and environmental health, and how I can help.

UNCOMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Energy

Learn About Renewable Energy

I will spend 30 minutes learning more about renewable energy alternatives (i.e. solar, wind, biomass) in my region.

UNCOMPLETED
ONE-TIME ACTION

Participant Feed

Reflection, encouragement, and relationship building are all important aspects of getting a new habit to stick.
Share thoughts, encourage others, and reinforce positive new habits on the Feed.

To get started, share “your why.” Why did you join the challenge and choose the actions you did?

  • REFLECTION QUESTION
    Health Support Pollution Reduction
    What environmental factors affect human health in your region, and how do they affect it?

    Ryan Witzig's avatar
    Ryan Witzig 11/19/2020 6:59 AM
    I did some research about the effects of farm runoff on the quality of water in the area. There are more than 27.5 million acres of farmland in Illinois, and because of this, rural areas have high nitrates in their water. Consuming too many nitrates can be harmful, especially for infants, as consuming too many nitrates can affect how the blood carries oxygen.

    • Janet  Beach Davis's avatar
      Janet Beach Davis 11/19/2020 7:08 PM
      McLean county is one of the two main contributors to the nutrient load that causes the dead zone in the gulf. 
  • REFLECTION QUESTION
    Food Try a New Way to Prep
    Canning and pickling food is a great way to have delicious summer fruits and vegetables all year round. Just make sure to follow the canning and pickling guidelines from the USDA or another trusted source. What are some foods that you would like to preserve and enjoy later in the year?

    Ryan Witzig's avatar
    Ryan Witzig 11/19/2020 6:53 AM
    This weekend I made my own dill pickles, and they turned out great. I plan on making sauerkraut next.
  • REFLECTION QUESTION
    Food Plant an Herb Garden
    Consider the ways you can garden: a plot of land? a patio container? hanging basket? windowsill gardens? What would work best for your living situation and lifestyle?

    Ryan Witzig's avatar
    Ryan Witzig 11/13/2020 7:42 AM
    At my house we have a little plot of land where we grow tomatoes, zucchini, and many other plants like oregano and basil. During the winter, we take the seeds and dry them, and we also replant our herbs in containers in our windowsill so we can plant them next spring. 
  • REFLECTION QUESTION
    Nature Explore My Area
    How might spending more time outdoors enhance your brainpower?

    Ryan Witzig's avatar
    Ryan Witzig 11/13/2020 7:26 AM
    Going outside can provide you more sunshine and fresh air. I went to a creek by my house that I haven't been to before, and it was refreshing being outside instead of being cooped up inside. Going outside to take a break from work or schoolwork gave me a much needed break.
  • REFLECTION QUESTION
    Energy Learn About Renewable Energy
    What inspires you to act on sustainable energy and other energy issues?

    Ryan Witzig's avatar
    Ryan Witzig 11/04/2020 6:56 AM
    Fossil fuels are running out, and with the world using them as fast as we are, we will need a new form of energy soon. There are many promising forms of alternative energy that can be used all around the world.