In Fall 2010, Groton High School implemented a new science/health elective called “Food, Land, and You”.  The 17 members have been busy collaborating with the cafeteria on a quest to serve up fresh, organic produce from the newly-improved “student farm”.  Students have picked and prepared lettuce, carrots, winter/summer squash, string beans, onions, garlic, melons, potatoes, tomatoes, and peppers from this year’s harvest in the 1,500 sq ft garden and 20′ hoop house.  So far, students have learned about preparing and preserving the harvest and even learned how to can their own salsa.  The purpose of the class is to link the health curriculum with the earth and biological sciences while emphasizing technology and local resources.   Before the students get back in the garden this spring, they will cover topics of soils, composting, livestock, herbs, healthy cooking, garden botany, and integrated pest management.  The goal is for them to leave high school with the skills to be self-sufficient by growing their own food and preparing healthy meals.  The garden upgrades and some class materials have been made possible through a grant from Sustainable Tompkins.  We were able to upgrade the garden this year with raised beds and this spring we plan to establish beds of asparagus, strawberries, and raspberries.