The sparse and yellowed field just south of the Old Horticulture Building has been the topic of debate for more than six years. With only a muddy footpath traversing it, the space remains a stark reminder of ASMSU's failure to endorse successfully any type of development that could revamp the site.

That all changed last week, however, when ASMSU's Student Assembly consolidated its support for the Student Greenhouse Project, a plan that would build a biodome behind the Old Horticulture Building on north campus. Finally, the space might serve a purpose other than being a point of indecision for assembly members.

If completed, the biodome will bring smiles to faces campuswide. Whether serving as a tropical hideaway during cold winter months or a quiet study place for busy students, a greenhouse will further enhance north campus' aesthetic setting.

Still, it has been discouraging to witness the constant debate that preceded ASMSU's final support of this greenhouse.

Plans for the biodome go back to 1998, when the Student Assembly pledged $200,000 for the project. A 2000 bill also supported its construction. But since 2001, ASMSU also has been actively supporting plans to build an amphitheater in the same site proposed for the biodome.

How could one campus group support plans for two conflicting projects?

It is conceivable that had ASMSU been able to consolidate its support for either project earlier on, Spartans might be reaping the benefits now. While the assembly fiddled with two conflicting proposals, no plans were going forward.

ASMSU wields power as it represents the voice of students on this campus. It has the prestige and strength required to make things happen, but until it is able to throw its full force behind individual and specific causes like the biodome project, it isn't performing to its best potential.