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Hickory County Outdoor Classroom Project
Hickory County has recently received funding from the Missouri Department of Conservation for an outdoor classroom facility. From that grant, the district constructed a wetland, amphitheater, trail and butterfly garden. The area is usable; however, certain enhancements would enable this area to become a true facility for natural resource learning for years to come.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
During the 14 months of this minigrant, the project sponsor will develop signs and learning stations, purchase a school compositor and develop a compost program, reseed the butterfly garden, and wetland bank to prevent further erosion. Curriculum will be developed to engage students in water quality and nonpoint source discussion. Fencing will be built to protect the outdoor classroom from vandalism. Students will highlight activities and ideas in quarterly articles published in the school newspaper.
OBJECTIVES
1.To increase the awareness of 25 students on nonpoint pollution and nutrient cycling through working on wetland restoration;
2. To increase MAP and SAT9 test scores on environmental issues by improving student understanding and comfort with environmental termonology;
3.To publish 4 articles in school and local newspapers about environmental issues including soil and water quality, biodiversity, nutrient recycling and natural succession over the course of one year; and
4.To establish a school-wide compost program, thereby reducing landfill wastes.
METHODS EMPLOYED
This grant will purchase an enviroscape model to demonstrate pollution from nonpoint sources. Composting programs will be initiated. Students will engage in soil testing, seeding, learning station development as well as publish articles for school and local newspapers.
PRODUCTS
4 learning stations,
2 signs
4 published articles
School wide composting program
TV Press Coverage
Quarterly and Final Reports to DNR
PROJECT SPONSOR
Hickory County R-IV School District
COOPERATING AGENCIES
Missouri Department of Natural Resources - State Parks Division
Missouri Department of Conservation
Hickory County Soil and Water Conservation District
Hickory County University of Missouri Outreach and Extension
CONTACT
Christy Dablemont
Hickory County R IV School District
P.O. Box 327
Hermitage MO 65668
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