Last Saturday, the Johnston Community College Landscape Gardening students were priviledged to a 'behind the scenes' operation of the NC Zoo (http://www.nczoo.org/) -- an incredible, first-class establishment that sets animals in native habitat. 

We walked and walked and walked over the grounds, from the North American exhibits clear across the globe to Africa.  We learned how the landscape designs were created, the various plants, their selection, installation, and their maintenance, the staff and how they secured their positions at the zoo, the propagation and restoration methods of the plantings, the greenhouses, upcoming designs, oh yes, and a bit about the animals too.  Not only was the trip exceedingly informative, it was FUN, and provided our horticulture students with an opportunity to think beyond traditional horticultural employment opportunities.  It was an eye-opening experience for all of us.

Our thanks to Gin Wall, curator, and her staff:  Michaelia, Ron, Dana, and Penny!