Buena students involved in their environment
Sarah Prall, Arizona Daily Star Left to right, Michelle Whitaker, Dana Smith and Cara Jo Peterson, plus Briana Welton, in framed picture. The four Buena High School students worked on environmental issues in Sierra Vista. |
By Ignacio Ibarra
The Arizona Daily Star
SIERRA VISTA - With the San Pedro River, the Huachuca Mountains and other examples of natures beauty nearby, it's easy to see why students here would take an interest in the environment.
Buena High School students Briana Welton, 18, Michelle Whitaker, 17, and Dana Smith, 17, put their interest to work as associate members of Sierra Vista's environmental commission.
Pat Bell, the city's environmental services analyst, said the commission is an advisory panel appointed by the city council that examines environmental challenges and makes recommendations to the governing body.
The commission has played an important role in the planning and development of the city's recycling program and composting project, water conservation project and public education projects such as the Water Wise program, he said.
The students are non-voting members of the commission, but otherwise have the same status and privileges of full members.
"We've been pleased with their participation, It's certainly accomplished what we had hoped as far as including youth and learning what it is that they are about," said Bell.
Welton, who is active in school and 4-H activities, was the first associate member of the environmental commission.
She is presently in Brazil where she is attending school as a Rotary Club exchange student.
Whitaker, an honor student who is considering a medical career, said she, Welton and Smith were encouraged by Buena High School science teacher Jon Bealer to apply for the city commission openings.
"When we got on the board we were very idealistic and wanted to change the world. We found out things don't work that way," Whitaker said. "It's a process, and things get done one step at a time. It's a little discouraging at times, but I enjoy it, it's given me a chance to speak out."
Smith said the experience has taught her the importance of negotiation and compromise in resolving problems.
It has also taught her that even small steps add up to progress.
Smith has been instrumental in an effort to reduce water consumption by convincing local restaurants to serve water on request.
She said she was surprised at the initial resistance to the project she views as promoting both conservation and public awareness. But she said most of the businesses are now participating.
"I think there are a lot of people who take an all or nothing kind of attitude and are unwilling to compromise - that's discouraging, because then nothing gets done," she said.
Smith said she is considering a medical career, but believes she will always be involved in environmental issues.