According to the University, “21 Acres is a leader in sustainable and regenerative practices, serving as a living laboratory center for conscious consumers who want to learn new, more sustainable ways of living. Located on 21 acres of farmland in Woodinville, WA, the organization has been an IAS community partner for more than 10 years, engaging with countless students and instructors through internships, volunteer projects, and research around topics such as hydrogeology, green building, community gardening, edible forests, permaculture, pollinator habitat, and wetland restoration.  For many, 21 Acres has provided an introduction to sustainable living and inspired their careers paths.  Several alumni have gone on to work for the organization, including IAS alumni Aaron Huston (’13), Gretchen Johnson (’11), Marshall Leroy (’16), and Krystal Wasson (’15).” 

“Through partnering with 21 Acres,” says Martha Groom, IAS faculty member, “our students gain opportunities to not only see first-hand how sustainable agriculture can be achieved, but be part of enhancing that sustainability at the site, and then take those perspectives and skills to new projects. Each project is like a seed planted in each student’s network and in their view of what is possible in our region. This collaboration has been enormously inspiring.” 

“21 Acres staff takes a great deal of pride assisting UW Bothell students with applying their learning to authentic settings,” said Kurt Sahl, 21 Acres’ Director of Operations. “We recognize that the field of sustainability crosses many disciplines and job titles aren’t always clearly linked to a degree name. To some extent, our partnership depends on our ability to translate how a course of study can be applied to a sense of satisfaction and, potentially, an extrinsic reward. Also, depending on the specific needs of the students, we can serve as a site where they can envision entrepreneurial futures, too. Ultimately, we want to share strategies for building resilient communities and to communicate the value of long term thinking.” Sahl adds, “We would be remiss if we didn’t acknowledge and honor the efforts behind the community engagement initiatives on which these opportunities rely. Nothing would happen without a committed staff and faculty who believe in the value of external partnerships, and support to make it all happen. On our campus our partnership with UW Bothell is truly valued.”

Photo: 21 Acres is the first recipient of the University of Washington Bothell’s School of Interdisciplinary Arts and Sciences (IAS) Outstanding Community Partner Award. 21 Acres staff present at the Circle of Recognition Honoree Ceremony are Krystal Wasson (back row, far left), Marshall Leroy and Gretchen Johnson (front row from left), and Kurt Sahl (front row, far right.)