KCC Service Learning

at the Lyon Arboretum

Reflective Journal: Entry 1 of 3

Joanne Soriano

February 23, 1997

Service Learning Project: Lyon Arboretum micropropagation

Before I actually begin, I would like to take a moment to describe the layout of my journals. I will complete three reflective papers, each about three pages long. This first paper, written at the beginning of the project, is about my initial experiences, describing the project and my goals regarding it. The second paper will be written midway through the semester, reflecting how the project is progressing, and what I've learned at that point. Finally, at the end of the semester the third paper will address what I accomplished, how it affected me, and my overall view of the entire experience.

With that, let's begin...




I still have vivid memories of myself as a little girl sitting in front of the TV with my dad, captivated by various episodes of "Wild Discovery America" or "Nature." To this day, I often find myself occupied by the world around me, staring at ant trails, watching tree branches sway with the wind, or listening to bird calls as I hike through Manoa. In other words, I have always loved nature. It is my source of relaxation, rejuvenation, and endless fascination.

I suppose that is why I became excited when I discovered the Service Learning opportunity at the Lyon Arboretum. The Lyon Arboretum is dedicated to nurturing the plantlife of Hawaii, especially native species. Their grounds are like a botanical garden, open to educate the public about Hawaii's plantlife. The Arboretum is also a site for plant collection and research. What I find most appealing is their concern for endangered plant species and conservation in general. Through their efforts, they help to preserve diversity. On a larger scale, their actions play a role conserving our environment and the health of our planet.

Through Service Learning, I am able to contribute to the Lyon Arboretum's efforts. I made my first visit on February 5th, and was taken to their micropropagation lab. In it, my supervisor, Greg Koob, showed me racks and racks of test tubes filled with plantlets. They were either endangered or native Hawaiian, or both. The endangered ones were clones; in some cases they were derived from only a few remaining individuals. A major function of the lab is to perpetuate these species by growing them in the test tubes and then splitting each individual into more test tubes as they grow. Thus one specimen can become hundreds, under the right condition. They can be planted on the Arboretum's grounds, or sent to various labs to be studied. I am thrilled to be given the opportunity to participate in the process.

On this first day, Greg gave me the task of micropropagating a fern called Pamoho. Although it is a native Hawaiian species, it isn't endangered; thus it serves as a perfect project for beginners. I learned that the most important part of micropropagation is sterility. When we divide a plantlet out into new test tubes we have to be careful to minimize its exposure to microbial contamination. I was given a hooded countertop ( a "hood") to work at. The hood allows me to manipulate the plantlets and test tubes with my hands while a glass partition prevents me from breathing on the plants. I was also required to wipe my hands and arms down with ethanol, and to handle the plantlets with forceps and a scalpel. These instruments are soaked with ethanol and flamed each time I use them. Each time I open a test tube to retrieve a plantlet I also must flame the test tube mouth. As Greg explained these procedures to me, and as I myself began to do the tasks, I was reminded of Micro140 lab. What had previously been mere classroom exercises were now practical skills that I could use in the Arboretum lab! Working in the lab really gave me (and continues to give me) an awareness that microorganisms are present everywhere. They are a constant part of our environment, and they affect all life forms, including plants. I never fully appreciated that fact until I began working at the Arboretum.

Returning to the Arboretum on February 12th, I was able to see how my plantlet transfers came out. Although many of my transfers were successful, there were quite a few that were contaminated! I thought I had been pretty careful with my aseptic technique, and was disappointed. Greg informed me, however, that there actually was a whole batch of contaminated Pamoho, transferred by different people and containing the same micro-organism. The original plantlet source might have been contaminated before transfer. Looking into one of the tubes, I saw a gray, fuzzy layer growing atop the agar medium: some type of fungus. The lab's goal now was to figure out where the contamination had come from. My personal goal was to be even more diligent with my aseptic techniques. For the moment, though, there was a large pile glassware that I and the other volunteers had to tackle. Yes, even amidst the luscious plantlife and bright sun, we had chores to do. So most of my second visit was spent washing dishes and asking questions. I also transferred contaminated plantlets into pots; they were no longer suitable for micropropagation, but at least we could give them a chance to overcome the fungus and grow.

Heading into my third week of volunteering, I became aware that I really didn't know much about the Arboretum itself. How could I fully appreciate my experience in the lab if I remained oblivious to the establishment which housed it? Well, I decided to rectify the situation on my February 19th visit. Greg and I thought it would be a good idea for me to start the day with a guided group tour, which covered the landscaped portion of the Arboretum's 195 acres. Of course, I saw many plants, some native, some not; ductive health of the plants? Which plant species are endangered in Hawaii? How did they become endangered? What other efforts are being done at the Arboretum to help protect endangered plant species? I would also like to become more proficient at micropropagation. Perhaps later I could become skilled enough to handle the propagation of other species, such as taro and some endangered species.

Most importantly, I would like to just enjoy providing my services for such a significant cause. The good health of wildlife and the environment is, and always will be, very important to me. I am thankful for this opportunity to help preserve the world around us.




Move on Joanne's 2nd entry

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