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Overview: Seventh graders are acquiring service credit towards graduation by contributing their skills and energy to the operation of a native plant nursery. Along the way they learn the fundamentals of horticulture, the value of native plants to insect diversity and abundance, and measuring plant diversity.
Testing water quality on Frog Pond.
Preparing to transplant a native tree in The Elms native plant nursery.
Moving native plants in preparation for weeding and transplanting.
Student Biodiversity Data
Student Biodiversity Data
7th grade is currently gathering biodiversity data at the Elms. The goal is to compare the plant and insect diversity of the non-native grassy lawn, the lowland pine forest and the edge area between the two.
Location: This field study is conducted by Elms Environmental Education Center educators at Elms Environmental Education Center in Lexington Park, MD. Any questions regarding the trip including scheduling and special concerns should be directed to Elms Environmental Education Center.
Typical Day (schedule is subject to change and may vary based on weather, transportation and needs of the individual class):
Bus pickup at school - 8:00 am
Arrival at field study site. Welcome & Introduction
Morning Activities
Lunch
Afternoon Activities
Review and Wrap-up
Bus departure from site - 1:30 pm
Chaperones: Chaperones are vital to the success of our field studies, serving as active program assistants and small group leaders. Approved volunteers are selected by the classroom teacher. Remember to pack your lunch and dress for a day outdoors. *Please set your phones to vibrate/silent during the field study.*
Tips for chaperones (PDF)
Prepare for Your Trip
What to Wear:
Dress for participation in outdoor activities and remember to choose clothes and shoes that can get wet and dirty.
Check the the weather for your field study site - ( Dameron/Lexington Park). Temperatures near the water can be 10 degrees COLDER (and more windy) than at home or school.
Layers are great for cold weather. Dress for the high temperature, and layer for the low.
Hats are recommended.
Bring your rain gear when rain is expected.
Don't forget to pre-apply sun block and insect repellent before you leave home (if desired).
Food and Drink:
Pack your lunch in reusable containers, if possible.
Be prepared to recycle and compost any lunch remains (carry out if Greenwell State Park).
Bring water to drink (labeled with your name), in a reusable water bottle if possible.
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