Forest Project Guidance
Introduction
Forests are an ecosystem type dominated by trees that form a continuous stand or are composed of many stands grouped together.
Formal Learning Project Guidance
Introduction
Formal learning projects are designed for primary, secondary and college students who are subject to state, provincial or national learning standards.
Any formal learning topic, including language arts, visual arts and history can be taught in an outdoor environment. For Conservation Certification, formal learning programs using nature and conservation as frameworks for science, technology, engineering, mathematics (STEM) and environmental education are preferred.
Invasive Species Project Guidance
Introduction
When species are introduced into an ecosystem where they do not naturally occur, the climatic and biological controls which limited them in their native habitat, such as predators, parasites and competing species, may not be present. As a result, some of these species become invasive, causing harm to that ecosystem by aggressively outcompeting or predating upon other species.
Grasslands Project Guidance
Introduction
Broadly defined, grasslands are an ecosystem dominated by herbaceous vegetation – typically grasses and wildflowers – with woody species covering no more than 10-20% of the ground area. Grasslands include both communities that require maintenance to retain their open nature, such as meadows, old fields and shrublands, and communities in which climate and other conditions prevent tree establishment, such as short-grass prairie.
Mammals Project Guidance
Introduction
A mammal is a warm-blooded vertebrate animal of a class that is distinguished by the possession of hair or fur, the secretion of milk by females for the nourishment of the young, and (typically) the birth of live young. Mammals are found on all continents (except Antarctica), and in almost all habitat types, including oceans, deserts, tropical forests and grasslands.
Landscaping Project Guidance
Introduction
Landscaping is generally considered part of the built environment, rather than a “natural” habitat. However, when designed with biodiversity in mind, it can make valuable contributions to conservation efforts. Landscaping designed to include a diversity of native plant species can benefit a variety of wildlife including butterflies, native bees and songbirds. Landscaping can also reduce irrigation and fertilizer needs, and benefit water and air quality.
Pollinator Project Guidance
Introduction
Pollinators – the animals that move pollen from flower to flower to accomplish fertilization – are vital to the health and economy of the world, propagating wild flowering plants as well as many crops. Pollinator species include bees, butterflies, moths, hummingbirds, beetles, flies and, in some regions, bats. Across the globe pollinator species are in decline due to a decrease in habitat available to them, degradation of much of the remaining habitat, and a reduction in pollinator-friendly practices on both small, local scales and large, regional scales.
Reptiles and Amphibians Project Guidance
Introduction
Reptiles and amphibians are important parts of both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems. Although reptiles and amphibians are two distinct classes of vertebrates, they have historically been treated as one group for the purposes of research under the field of herpetology, as well as for habitat management. Reptiles include snakes, lizards, crocodiles and turtles, and amphibians include frogs, toads, and salamanders.
Training Project Guidance
Introduction
Conservation training projects help learners acquire knowledge and skills that can be applied to a conservation project or conservation education effort. Training experiences build capacity for long-term change in the local community and the region by strengthening the pool of capable individuals willing to assist in conservation endeavors.
Marine Intertidal Project Guidance
Introduction
The marine intertidal zone is the area of shore between the extremes of high and low tides. It is also known as the foreshore and seashore, and is sometimes referred to as the littoral zone. This area encompasses many different types of habitats, including rocky and sandy shorelines, mudflats, salt marshes, tidepools and mangrove roots.