In 2024, the University of Vermont (UVM) and our Osher Center launched a Planetary Health initiative, grounded in the understanding that human health and civilization depend on the flourishing and wise stewardship of natural systems.  This proposed program would utilize existing medical center and university campus green spaces and leverage existing partnerships e.g. Burlington Parks Department and Urban Food Forests. This immersive nature education and employee wellness program would engage health-care providers and staff in workshops, nature walks and community service projects to deepen their knowledge and quality of life.  Specific elements would include professional development on topics such as bioregional herbalism and culinary medicine, mapping and enhancing engagement with existing campus gardens and green spaces, practicing safe and sustainable wild-crafting, pharmacology and preparation of nutrient-dense local foods for optimal assimilation and deliciousness, and team-building service projects such as harvesting local elderberries and preparing syrup for food-insecure community members.

Project Lead: Katherine Elmer, M.S. NB-HWC, Health Coach at the UVM Osher Center for Integrative Health, Lecturer II in the UVM Department of Agriculture, Livelihoods and Environment, Founder and Co-director of Spoonful Herbals (501c3 educational nonprofit)

Estimated budget $40,000

Key Team Members:

Christine Vatovec, PhD Planetary Health Lead at the UVM Osher Center for Integrative Health

Dani Bois NB-HWC, Health Coach UVM Medical Center Employee Wellness

Diane Imrie, UVM Medical Center Director of Sustainability

Emily Stone, RD UVM Medical Center Comprehensive Pain Program

Rachel Boyers, UVM Medical Center Gardens for Health Program

Brendan Fisher, UVM Natural Areas Program

Duncan Murdoch, Intervale Center Land Stewardship Coordinator

Meghan O' Daniel, City of Burlington Parks and Recreation

Estimated budget $40,000