The Problem
Our group, The GreenHawks, is a class of 26 fourth-graders. With community support and perseverance, our hope is to increase the biodiversity and beauty of our school, Margaret Black Elementary in Sterling Heights, Michigan, campus.
Our Plan
In October, we surveyed our campus several times and found it lacks variety of plants, birds, and other wildlife. We have identified 3 sites on our campus to convert into suitable habitat for plants and birds. We installed 3 raised-bed gardens. We will use our 3 new garden beds to cultivate flowers and plants that are native to Michigan or are suitable for our climate. Students led research will guide our planting decisions. Initially, community support will be necessary for our success. We will need to seek seasonal donations of flower seeds and other plants for our garden beds. Donated items will grow in our garden beds. Once plants are mature, they will be transplanted all around our campus in hopes that the new foliage and flowers will attract birds and other wildlife. After the first cycle or transplants, students will be taught to harvest seeds, split plants, and propagate new shoots. This winter we are making bird feeders from pinecones, peanut butter, and birdseeds. We will make more than 50 pinecone feeders and hang them from existing trees to help lure birds onto our campus. We will recycle heavy-duty plastic bottles and make birdhouses. Students will count the number of birds at feeders throughout the winter. After the first year, we hope to use our beds to grow flowers for fundraising. Our goal will be to use the money to make purchases that will further develop our garden and habitat sites.
Themes Addressed
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Community Enhancement
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Wildlife
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