Ambassador of the Wetlands
This exciting environmental science program is based on a community partnership between Mounts Botanical Garden, Palm Beach Soil & Water Conservation District and the A.R.M. Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge. The program promotes wetland stewardship, water conservation and environmental education and will enhance Everglades knowledge, inspire civic responsibility and a sense of stewardship over our natural resources. It includes field trips to visit a "model" wetland garden at the Mounts Botanical Garden and a "real" wetland at the A.R.M. Loxahatchee National Wildlife Refuge.
Participation in this free program is on a first come, first serve basis and the number is limited. Preference is given to those classes with a significant emphasis on the environment. If you are interested in learning more, please contact Laura, District Director at 561-792-2727 x 3 or laura.pbswcd@gmail.com.
The program is designed for high school students and consists
of a school classroom pre-visit - focusing on core concepts of
the curriculum, one full day of a hands-on, experimental field
trip to both Mounts and the Refuge - where students will learn to dip net and identify
macroinvertebrates, followed by a reflective post-visit in the classroom - where water conservation behaviors and career opportunities are discussed. Core themes will include Florida's geologic history and Everglades formation, the importance of wetlands, ecological functions, human changes to the natural system, and what young people can do to help.
"The program is very professional and well organized, which allowed my students to enjoy an experience of a lifetime. Throughout every moment of the day, the students were engaged and learning. What an amazing program!!"
Kim Stryker, Western Academy Charter School