Report on CCE County Mini-Grant Biodiversity Projects
The below projects were submitted by CCE County Associations for funding through the Biodiversity Program Work Team (PWT). Each specific project is scheduled for completion in 2003. Each project is led by CCE Educator(s) and is jointly sponsored by several local environmental organizations and agencies.
2002 Biodiversity Captured in Photographs Photo Contest
Greene and Columbia County CCE, Marilyn Wyman,
Nine organizations and agencies coordinated a photo competition with the goal of highlighting the understanding and appreciation of regional biodiversity among contestants and viewers. Each entry must be accompanied by a statement that describes how the photo depicts some aspect of biodiversity. Participation was solicited from school and college camera clubs, community camera clubs, libraries, 4-H clubs and other youth groups. Contest rules, entry forms and informational packets were distributed to such organizations and promoted via area newspapers. Deadline for entries was 31 October. Winners will receive awards and all photos will be displayed at an art show at the Columbia Greene Community College. The contest results will be portrayed on various CCE websites and CDs will be available for use in many contexts. The contest will become an annual event and is expected to build as more people and organizations learn of this unique educational opportunity.
The Lower Hudson Valley: An Amazingly Biodiverse Place
Ulster County CCE, Kelly Radzik,
This project will prepare curriculum materials in the format of a "Biodiversity Handbook" on the general topic of biodiversity, with a regional focus on the Hudson River Valley. The primary use of the materials will be via the annual Ulster County 4-H Environmental Awareness Day (EAD) attended by 400 6th-grade students. Over a dozen local environmental organizations co-sponsor the event. The Handbook will contain fact sheets, activities, worksheets, and a case study/student science activity. As interest and participation increases over time, teacher needs will be assessed in the area of biodiversity to determine future additions to the handbook. The handbook materials will be available via various CCE webpages with links to other environmental informational sources. Student activities will be deliverable via CD presentations.
Biodiversity Training for Master Gardeners
Dutchess, Orange, and Rockland County CCE, Patricia Kelly,
CCE Educators and stakeholders from the above counties are developing an education project designed to enhance the awareness of biodiversity issues among Master Gardener volunteers in the region. Master Gardener volunteers are charged with the responsibility of educating their families, friends and neighbors on good gardening practices and the impact of human behavior on the environment, yet they too lack a good understanding of biodiversity issues. As educators, we have a duty to provide them with the information they need to have an effect on these quality of life issues in their communities. A full-day workshop is planned for Sat., 29 Mar. 2003 at Stonykill Environmental Center in Fishkill. Notable speakers include Karen Strong from the Hudson River Estuary Program, Suzanne Maloney from the Invasive Plant Council, and a representative from our local S&WCD. Invasive plants, biodiversity and its importance, and the USDA's program on backyard conservation are among the topics to be addressed. The day will wrap up with a panel discussion on the bottom line - what can Master Gardeners do to help? The day's program will be condensed into a proceedings available in hard copy and via the NYS Master Gardener's Webpage.