The Problem
Our aim is to gain a better understanding of the Monarch species in Hall county, the numbers, the life cycle, and the effect we have on their population. We have begun researching and working with area groups to plant native species of flora in a 1/2 acre plot. The seeding has already taken place and we will continue to collect data on plant growth and Monarch numbers, but will also take a look at the biodiversity of the area we have planted. Although our group only contains a dozen students from the 6th, 7th, and 8th grades, we our hoping that our enthusiasm will help our group grow.
Our Plan
In the fall, our students will begin to evaluate the 1/2 acre plot to see how our spring planting succeeded. Along with Pheasants Forever, we will begin monitoring the flora and fauna found in our area and watch for the continued success of our native species. We hope to evaluate the soil as well as the amount of rainfall in the area. Once we have established our milkweed population, we hope to attract Monarch butterflies to the area to evaluate their numbers, tag and monitor them. Our students will be citizen scientists, collecting, evaluating and communicating the information to the Monarch watch team and to the community.
