Writing Students Learn About the Green Swamp

group photoProfessor Thomas Hallock (far right) and his class enjoyed a trip to the Green Swamp. The trip was led by Paul Elliott, senior land specialist (back center).

A University of South Florida nature writing class recently experienced the Green Swamp as part of its class curriculum.

District staff led Professor Thomas Hallock’s class on the trip. Paul Elliott, senior land management specialist, spoke to the students about the hydrology and ecology of the Green Swamp, and Margaret Blommel, land use specialist, spoke to the class about recreation opportunities on District lands. The class also learned about the District’s land and wildlife management practices.

“The students enjoyed the trip immensely. They appreciated the personal connection with Paul Elliott,” said Hallock. “He clearly loves the Green Swamp, and that shows.”

In addition to reading classic works of environmental literature, the class takes several field trips. The trip to the Green Swamp tract was followed by trips to the Withlacoochee and Hillsborough rivers, as well as an urban paddle of the Hillsborough River.

Class assignments included a short descriptive essay, a travel essay and a final paper.

In addition to their essays, the class is completing a self-published book entitled “Rivers of the Green Swamp,” which will complement the class web site.