Debra Coltharp

 

Debra Coltharp, a horticulturist who works at Louisiana State University, spoke on Wednesday. Debra spoke about her life and what drove her to become a horticulturist at LSU.

 

Career

Coltharp has worked at LSU for a long time. She cares for the grounds of the university and takes care of the many plant species on campus. Recently budget cuts have cuts have hit the horticulture department and out of the original 83 horticulturists only 33 remain.

 

Parts of her job

Coltharp is responsible for caring and keeping up with all the plant species on campus. She decides what plants to buy and plant, and which plants to move to what location. She has a specific method for picking and purchasing the plants she brings on campus.

 

Early life

Coltharp attributes most of her success to her upbringing on a ranch. Her grandfather was a big part of her early life and made her want to study horticulture. She developed an eye for detail and discovered her passion for horticulture.

 

“Safety is the first thing when I head out the door,” said Coltharp.

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