The Problem
We are addressing a lack of pollinator and pollinator biodiversity in our garden space on campus. We also want to teach students and community members about the importance of pollinators and how to create a space for them to flourish.
Our Plan
To plan and implement a garden space that attracts and supports pollinator activity throughout the year and provides an educational opportunity for members of the FCHS community.
Themes Addressed
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Biodiversity Loss
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Community
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Habitat Destruction
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Pollinators
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The Benefit
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People
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Animals
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Environment
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Here is how the project went:
Using the grant funds, we purchased pollinator plant starts, soil, and mulch. Our students researched, planned, and presented their ideas for the area. Students voted on their favorite, and then the chosen garden was implemented in the space by our students, as well as with the help of our garden club on campus. As the project unfolded, our goals expanded from simply planting flowers to also educating other students on campus. The results were encouraging. The flowers have already attracted butterflies and bees to the garden areas, and students have observed pollinators during class. The educational signs sparked conversations among students, and several families reported starting their own pollinator gardens after their student came home sharing what they had done in class. A challenge we faced was maintaining the garden during the summer when campus was empty, but several students and parent volunteers stepped in to help with weeding and watering. The garden club will also help with maintenance during the school year. Through this project, we learned the importance of pollinators in our world, as well as the impact that flowering plants can have, not only on the pollinators but also on the people.
Through this project I/we learned:
We learned the importance of pollinators in our world, as well as the impact that flowering plants can have, not only on the pollinators but also on the people. Students learned skills like plant selection and planting techniques, as well as how to monitor for pollinator use of the garden.
What I/we might change:
Next time, we would add more drought-resistant and sun-loving plants and expand outreach efforts. We would like to involve the community outside our school more.
My/our favorite part of this project was:
Seeing students engaged in a project that impacted so many areas of their lives. Student presented, learning soft skills, participated in the garden installation and maintenance, and then did activities to improve outreach and education around campus.
Some tips, tricks or fun facts about the project:
We enjoyed this project so much! Our campus is so much more beautiful now and a safe haven for students and pollinators alike.
