Being able to connect guests to the magic of nature is something I really dig about my job. Naturally, Earth Month is one of my favorite times to celebrate nature and talk more about how we can conserve our resources and protect the planet. From time to time, we hear stories about guests who were inspired by a visit to our parks.

For Michael Ogden, he credits a “Behind the Seeds” tour he took when he was a teen years ago at Epcot as the starting point for his academic ambitions. He was so inspired by what he learned about plants growing in the greenhouses at The Land, he built his own hydroponic system of fruits and vegetables in his family’s basement when he returned to Canada. In the years since, Michael has become a plant scientist, focusing his PhD research on molecular biology. Recently, Michael came back to visit the Disney Agricultural Sciences team to celebrate their shared passion for plants. Here’s a look at the magical day.

I was so thrilled to learn that our team of agricultural science cast members impacted Michael when he was so young and inspired his love for nature and the environment. The team enjoys caring for the various plants in the greenhouses, researching new ways to grow fruits and vegetables from around the world, and sharing their passion with guests on the Living with the Land boat ride and Behind the Seeds tour. We hope to encourage each guest to explore the science behind sustainable food production and learn how hydroponics and diverse planting methods can work together to help feed the world.

If you’re interested in going on a Behind the Seeds tour, they are offered multiple times throughout the day at Epcot’s The Land Pavilion. Learn more here and call 407-WDW-TOUR or 407-939-8687 to make a reservation.