A radically simple solution to improving science education in America

It’s Teacher Appreciation Week, so let’s start this column with a nod to my 9^th-grade science teacher, Bruce Butler, who lit a spark in me by making geology and environmental science fun, interesting – and rigorous. I still think of him whenever I’m out hiking or fishing and come across some geological curiosity. He went on to a successful career as a principal and is retiring this summer, but would no doubt be happy to know that today’s science teachers seem to be having an impact on kids, too, according to science achievement-test data released yesterday. The data, from the National Assessment of Educational Progress, or NAEP, a test given periodically to a national sample of students, shows that overall scores are rising a little and that the racial achievement gap is narrowing. Still, there is a long way to go: just one in three 8^th-graders scored at the proficient level, a tiny increase from the last time the test was administered two years ago.(MORE: What Everyone Missed on the Pineapple Question)

At last month’s White House Summit on Environmental Education, there was much handwringing by my fellow panelists and other advocates about the sorry state of environmental education — and science education in general — in our schools. Cabinet officials reiterated their support for making environmental education more important, but there was little in the way of specifics. Ideas such as using innovative technology to simulate environmental experiences were touted, but perhaps the most promising way to improve science teaching and environmental education is also the simplest: get kids outside more. Children will learn more about the natural world by spending a few hours in it than days in front of a computer – and it’s healthier for them too.

(MORE: Can Computers Replace Teachers?)

The NAEP data released yesterday shows that students who rarely do hands-on science underperform those who do it almost every day by 16 points on the NAEP’s scale — that’s about a full grade level’s worth of learning. Hands-on science is not only more fun for kids; it helps teach critical thinking and problem solving, valuable skills in an ideas economy.

But if you want better science education for your kids, don’t wait for Washington. Here are a few things schools, parents, and policymakers can do right away to improve environmental and science education:

For schools. When Brian Fedigan teaches high school biology in Boise, Idaho, he takes his students out into the Owyhee Desert to see sage grouse strutting. It’s a chance to teach students about the grouse’s life cycle and predators as well as invasive threats, such as a type of grass threatening the bird’s habitat and the impact of development. Being so close to amazing wildlife is not something that applies at many schools. But almost any teacher can do what Fedigan does early on with his kids, which is to spend an hour walking around the school introducing students to the types of birds and other species living there. Pigeons, sparrows, ants and trees of some sort can be found in almost any concrete jungle. And sadly, even in beautiful, resource-rich Idaho – where more than half the state is federal land – Fedigan says few of his students have spent much time outside.

There are also plenty of conservation organizations that offer hands-on support to teachers. For instance, Trout Unlimited — I’m a life member, so you know where my heart is – offers a “Trout in the Classroom” curriculum unit in which students raise and release fish and in the process learn about the temperature, water quality, and stream conditions that cold-water fish like trout need to survive. Ducks Unlimited and other conservation groups offer similar support for teachers. The M.J. Murdock Charitable Trust sponsors a “Partners In Science” initiative for high school science teachers that enables them to do research and science during the summer. This program not only helps improve teaching, but means science teachers do not have to choose between teaching science and doing scientific research.

(MORE: 7 Things You Need to Know About a School (Before You Enroll Your Kid))

For parents. If your kid’s teacher isn’t getting the class outside or making science experiential and interactive, then dig into your school district’s budget. If administrators say there isn’t money for field trips and other hands-on things, then figure out where the money is going. In her 2010 book Educational Economics: Where Do School Funds Go, Marguerite Roza pointed out that schools frequently spend less per student on science than they do on classes like gym or ceramics and other electives. If a school tells you that the hang-up is standardized testing, don’t buy it. Good schools have an integrated curriculum and rigorous science in the outdoors helps teach math and reading too.

You can also go a long way in supplementing your child’s science education yourself. Even the most blighted areas have small parks nearby, and many communities have terrific nature centers with walks and other programming for kids. You don’t have to be a science expert to help children appreciate some of the basics and most importantly get them interested in asking questions and figuring out the answers – even if that’s afterwards at the library or on your home computer. My personal choice would be a fishing trip. As the weather warms up, most states have a free “take a kid fishing” day where you don’t need to worry about getting a fishing license for yourself or your child and can fish for free. Tell teachers and other parents about these kinds of things, and maybe you can organize a trip for everyone. If fishing is not your thing, there are birds, butterflies, streams and all sorts of other marvels outside that will get kids interested in the natural world.

(MORE: Can Parents Take Over Schools?)

For policymakers. Like parents, wonks should pay attention to where the money is going. And as I wrote in my column last week, we need better tests. The NAEP is innovating using technology to offer better quality questions that approximate real-life problems, for instance having students figure out payload weights for a hot air balloon. In the meantime the NAEP has some good questions that require students to write out responses. Better curriculum is a must, too.

Policymakers also need to come up with more ways to help science teachers – and all other teachers – connect with their discipline and develop new ways of teaching and reaching students. The education world is split over whether to reward the best teachers with higher salaries, but there is more agreement around giving the best teachers sabbaticals or opportunities to teach their colleagues. Building that sort of activity into policy and budgets is long overdue.

The bottom line is that science can be a hat trick: It’s a great way to get kids outside and moving, teach them about the natural world, and make science come alive for them. The benefits of that extend far beyond better test scores. So rather than bemoan our performance on the NAEP, do something about it – even if it’s just taking your child fishing for a day.

(MORE: These Schools Mean Business)

Read more: http://ideas.time.com/2012/05/11/what-do-we-do-about-poor-science-scores-take-kids-outside/#ixzz1uYk99JkB

Nominations for the Thomas Berry Great Work Award Due May 30th

The Thomas Berry Great Work Award was established in 2012 by the Environmental Consortium to acknowledge and further the idea that higher education has a unique and profound role in society, as described by Thomas Berry in the chapter “The University” of his book The Great Work: Our Way into the Future.

The Thomas Berry Great Work Award recognizes individuals in higher education whose work exemplifies Berry’s admonition that colleges and universities should “reorient the human community toward a greater awareness that the human exists, survives, and becomes whole only within the single great community of the planet Earth.” The work of such individuals from within the Hudson and Mohawk River bioregional community has nurtured progress and prosperity of the entire life community.

Award Criteria: Nominees must demonstrate a dedication to teaching, scholarship, service, leadership or other educational activities that have resulted in significant achievement or impact while reflecting the essence of Thomas Berry’s vision and philosophy. The nominee does not necessarily need to have directly referenced Thomas Berry, so long as his ethic is expressed.

SAVE THE DATE: Consortium Annual Conference – Saturday, October 27, 2012 The Environmental Consortium’s Annual Conference theme this year honors Thomas Berry, whose vision for the role of the university in a New Cosmology that celebrates the inherent interconnectedness of humans and nature, inspired the formation of the Environmental Consortium in 2004.

Conference Highlights Include:

• Presentation of the Inaugural Thomas Berry Great Work Award
• Student and Faculty Inter and Multi Disciplinary Poster Session

New Mission Statement for the Environmental Consortium and Name Change

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Regional Events
 

Science and Management Forum: Hydrofracking in Focus – What Every Citizen Needs to Know (May 5, 2012) 9:00am-12:00pm
Cary Institute Auditorium, 2801 Sharon Turnpike (Route 44), Millbrook, NY

An overview of the science behind gas extraction via hydraulic fracturing, including potential groundwater impacts and the treatment of wastewater.  Insight will also be provided by a medical doctor, a researcher with expertise in the social dynamics of surging gas extraction, and an industry representative. Reservations are required, name tags will be provided. Please note – our last two forums filled to capacity; early registration is recommended. Free and open to the public.

Mini Farming Self-Sufficiency on 1/4 Acre (May 6, 2012) 2:00pm-3:30pm
Beacon Institute Gallery, 199 Main Street, Beacon, NY

The Beacon Institute for Rivers and Estuaries’ Sunday Author Series presents author Brett L. Markham, with his guide to a holistic approach to small-area farming. Markham’s book Mini Farming, Self-Sufficiency on 1/4 Acre, will help lead the way to producing a harvest, which can result in up to 85 percent of an average family’s food, providing plentiful savings and good garden times, regardless of the proverbial green thumb!

Clean Water Act at 40: Facing the Future (May 7, 2012) 8:30am-6:00pm
Student’s Building, Multi-Purpose Room, Vassar College, Poughkeepsie, NY

The Hudson River Environmental Society (HRES) is presenting a conference recognizing the 40th anniversary of the Federal Water Pollution Control Amendments of 1972, commonly referred to as the Clean Water Act (CWA). The objective of the CWA was “…to restore and maintain the chemical, physical and biological integrity of the Nation’s waters.” Passage of the CWA led to unprecedented efforts to clean up our Nation’s waters in an effort to render them “fishable and swimmable”. After 40 years, it is now appropriate to revisit the CWA with a look forward at the potential problems and solutions for improving and maintaining water quality in the Hudson River estuary and its watershed.

Forest Walk with Paul Blaszak (May 12, 2012) 10:00am-11:30am
Beacon Institute’s CEIE, base of Denning’s Avenue, Beacon, NY

Join forester Paul Blaszak for a morning of tree identification, and a discussion of the human impact on forest succession at Denning’s Point.

How Animals Think with Tom Langen (May 17, 2012) 7:00 pm
Beacon Institute CEIE, base of Denning’s Avenue, Beacon, NY

Beacon Institute’s Third Thursday Series at CEIE presents Tom Langen, Ph.D., associate professor of biology and psychology at Clarkson University, for a fascinating perspective on animal behavior. In his talk titled “How Animals Think”, Dr. Langen will discuss research documenting how animals make choices when at risk, sharing surprising similarities to humans in their decision-making processes. Dr. Langen, who teaches animal behavior, ecology, conservation biology and global environmental change at Clarkson University, is also an active researcher who applies his knowledge of animal behavior to real-world challenges. The event is free and open to the public.

SUNY ESF: Inaugural Symposium of Interdisciplinary Scholarship in Land Use (June 1-3, 2012)
Huntington Wildlife Forest, Newcomb, NY

This event will highlight research from across professions and disciplines on topics related to balancing individual and community priorities with respect to land use, and the associated expectations for human and ecosystem stewardship and social and environmental ethics. The aim of this symposium is to generate conversation around a variety of approaches to land use, the moral implications of these approaches, as well as the ways that they influence the ongoing debate over how to achieve social and environmental justice. New and in-process work from a range of disciplines and professional fields will be represented and integrated into the symposium discourse. For more information contact Marianne Patinelli-Dubay, mpatinelli@esf.edu.

Yale Summer Symposium: Religion and Environmental Stewardship (June 5 -7, 2012)
Yale Divinity School, 409 Prospect Street, New Haven, CT

This environmental symposium -aimed at clergy, lay leaders, and seminary faculty-will engage experts from Yale and across the country to address topics such as the greening of seminaries and churches, curricular initiatives in eco-theology, climate change, environmental justice, and preaching and liturgical approaches to environmental stewardship. The symposium will include a screening, and discussion, of the movie Journey of the Universe, for which Yale Divinity School Senior Lecturer and Research Scholars Mary Evelyn Tucker and John Grim served as executive producers. The symposium is co-sponsored by YDS, Berkeley Divinity School at Yale, the Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies, and the Yale Forum on Religion and Ecology. Tuition is $100, and the registration deadline is May 15th.

SAVE THE DATES

October 10-12, 2012
AMNH Student Conference on Conservation Science – New York (SCCS-NY)
American Museum of Natural History, New York City
The Student Conference on Conservation Science was created in 2000 by the University of Cambridge, and is currently held annually in Cambridge, New York, and Bangalore, India. The 2012 SCCS-NY is hosted by the Center for Biodiversity and Conservation at the American Museum of Natural History. Collaborating institutions include Cambridge University, Columbia University Earth Institute, Yale School of Forestry and Environmental Studies, and Princeton University.
October 18-21, 2012

The NYS Outdoor Education Association 44th Annual Conference

The New York State Outdoor Education Association (NYSOEA) 44th Annual Conference will be held Thursday to Sunday, October 18-21, at Long Island’s very own, Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) in Upton, NY.

Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL), a multi-program national laboratory operated by Brookhaven Science Assoc. for the U.S. Department of Energy with its 5,000+ acres of woods, grassy fields, and an on campus pond, BNL makes the perfect backdrop for the NYSOEA conference, as STEM, Science Technology Engineering and Math, plays a large role in this year’s theme: “Outdoor Education has always been green, and an effective way to teach STEM.”

Join us for this unique opportunity to hear from three accomplished and inspiring speakers: Jaimie Cloud founder of President of the Cloud Institute for Sustainability Education, Patti Wood, co-founder & Executive Director of Grassroots Environmental Education, and Carl Safina, world renowned scientific writer and founder of the Blue Ocean Institute.

For more information on this year’s conference, visit www.nysoea.org and check back regularly for CONFERENCE UPDATES.  “Like” NYSOEA on Facebook, too.
October 27, 2012

9th Annual Conference of the Environmental Consortium, hosted by Marist College
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WGBC Internship – Starting Spring/Summer 2012

http://climatechange.westchestergov.com/wgbc-internship
Launched in December 2009, the Westchester Green Business Challenge (WGBC) is a joint program of Westchester County Government and the Business Council of Westchester.  The mission is to educate and encourage Westchester County businesses to reduce greenhouse gas emissions (GHG) while improving operational performance and saving money. Modelled after the successful Chicago Green Office Challenge developed by ICLEI – Local Governments for Sustainability, the program was adapted to reflect the unique business profile of Westchester County while addressing the universal issues of energy and water conservation, waste reduction, sustainable land use and transportation (the five areas of focus in the Westchester County Action Plan for Climate Change & Sustainable Development).

The WGBC continues to grow as companies of all sizes in Westchester County begin to address climate change and sustainability issues. As an intern, you will receive training on resources currently provided through the WGBC and be equipped to contribute to the expansion of our program.  You will gain unique insight into a wide range of Westchester-based businesses who have committed to reducing their environmental impact.

Academic credit for this internship can be arranged through department approval at your college or university.
The attributes we look for in our interns:

• Strong work ethic and initiative

• Interest in environmental sustainability & economic development

• Ability to work well in a team environment

• Strong written and verbal communication skills

• Strong organizational skills

• Embraces experiences as learning opportunities

• Skilled in Microsoft Office, especially Excel & PowerPoint

• Experience with social media platforms and website maintenance

Ideal candidates will also meet the following requirements:

• Enrolled in a college or university that is part of the Environmental Consortium of Hudson Valley Colleges and Universities

• Active involvement in activities related to environmental sustainability

• Good academic standing

Specific duties include:

• Program outreach at local business events

• Provide support to businesses participating in the WGBC as needed

• Respond to inquiries from prospective participants in the program.

• Help maintain and analyze participant data.

• Assess program resource needs based upon the data received through the WGBC website.

• Assist in creating educational events and trainings for participants.

• Provide on-going program website maintenance and support.

Duration: This internship will begin in spring/summer 2012; the duration and number of hours per week is flexible based on availability and project requirements, but estimated at 10-20 hours per week for a minimum of 3 months.

Location: The internship is home-based, with on-site meetings in downtown White Plains scheduled on an as-needed basis.  The intern will also attend other local events that are relevant to the WGBC and its mission.  Access to a car is therefore desired, but not required to apply.

To apply: Please e-mail your cover letter and resume to WestchesterGBC@gmail.com, with WGBC Internship in the subject line.

Pine Bush Pups: Signs of Spring

Tuesday May 1, 2012 10:30am-11:30am

The Earth has awoken from its winter slumber and spring is here!  Join us as we explore the Pine Bush in search of signs of spring including budding plants, migrating birds, insects on the move and more.  As part of this program we will go outside for a short hike so remember to prepare for the weather!  This program is for pre-school aged children.  When registering, please indicate the number of children only.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: FREE

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Pine Bush Pups: Signs of Spring

Wednesday May 2, 2012, 10:30am-11:30am

The Earth has awoken from its winter slumber and spring is here!  Join us as we explore the Pine Bush in search of signs of spring including budding plants, migrating birds, insects on the move and more.  As part of this program we will go outside for a short hike so remember to prepare for the weather!  This program is for pre-school aged children.  When registering, please indicate the number of children only.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: FREE

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

First Friday Hike: Leafing Out

Friday May 4, 2012, 12:00pm – 1:00pm

Come explore the emergence of leaves in the Albany Pine Bush Preserve.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: FREE

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Almost Full Moon Hike

Friday May 4, 2012, 7:00-8:00pm

Enjoy the Pine Bush at night with an hour long hike under the almost full moon. We will walk approximately 1.5 miles over rolling topography stopping intermittently for night vision and sound observations. Please remember to dress appropriately for the weather.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Wild Edibles

Saturday May 5, 2012 10:00-11:30am

Did you ever wonder about wild edible plants in the Pine Bush?  Join us for an introductory glance into the existence of wild edibles right here in the pine barrens.  We will begin with an indoor presentation followed by a hike to search for wild edibles along the trail.  Please note: this program is appropriate for ages 16 and older.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Lupine Walk

Sunday May 6, 2012 1:00-2:00pm

Do you know why the wild blue lupine is so vital to the Albany Pine Bush and the survival of the Karner Blue Butterfly?  Well join us at Madison Avenue Extension trailhead for an hour hike over rolling terrain to explore Karner Blue butterfly habitat and discover wild blue lupine.  Please wear long pants, long-sleeve shirt, sturdy walking shoes and bring a drink.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

International Migratory Bird Day

Saturday May 12, 2012 8:00am – 3:00pm

Come celebrate International Migratory Bird Day with the Capital District Chapter of the Audubon Society and the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission!  We will have programs throughout the day for all ages beginning with a bird walk in the morning followed by the “Migration Challenge” kids’ activity from 10:30am – 2:00pm.  Don’t miss our featured speaker Neil Gifford, Conservation Director for the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission, from 2:30pm – 3:30pm.  We hope to see you there!

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: FREE. Registration required.

To see the full schedule of events for the day or to sign up visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Plant a Flower

Sunday May 13, 2012, 1:00-2:00pm

Come learn about the natural history of the Albany Pine Bush ecosystem, the challenges the Pine Bush faces today and how each of us can help.  By planting native species in our landscapes, we can help bring back the diversity of plants that are unique to this area.  All program participants will have the chance to plant seeds of native Pine Bush plants to take home.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Science Lecture Series: Restoration

Thursday May 17, 2012, 7:00-8:00pm

Human development and the suppression of fire have reduced wildlife habitat in the preserve.  Join us for an evening lecture with Joel Hecht, Stewardship Director of the Albany Pine Bush Preserve, to learn about the reasons, methods and results of restoring habitat in the Pine Bush.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Lupine Festival

The Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission is proud to announce its annual Lupine Festival will be held on Saturday, May 19, 2012 from 10:00AM – 4:00PM at the Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center at 195 New Karner Road in the City of Albany. This year the festival will entertain visitors with a circus theme and encourage people to step right up to the Pine Bush show and marvel at the blooming lupine, Karner blue butterfly and Albany Pine Bush Preserve through interactive games, face painting, make and take crafts, hikes to discover the amazing world of high flying acrobats of the sky and spectacular sideshows. The festival will feature amazing acts including, Silent Wings with breathtakingly beautiful live birds of prey, a bee circus, music by the Whippersnappers, a Kidz Theater where you’ll be magically transformed into pine barrens creatures, and the incredible talents of Mr. Twisty. Enjoy delectable treats in Bettie’s original and fabulous cupcake stand and delight in a FREE day of fantastic Pine Bush fun for the whole family- rain or shine!  Visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org for more details, click on Events Calendar.

Karner Blue Butterfly Walk

Saturday May 26, 2012 11:00am-12:00pm

Don’t miss this chance to join Albany Pine Bush staff on a hike in the Pine Bush Preserve to see the Karner blue butterfly.  Once common in the glacial Lake Albany sand belt, the Karner blue has plummeted in numbers over the past 40 years and is now listed as a federally endangered species.  Come learn about the natural history of the Karner blue and what efforts are underway to rescue this species from the brink of extinction.  Bring along your camera, sturdy walking shoes and drinking water.  Please register early-this program fills up quickly!

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY: Madison Avenue Trailhead

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Pond Trek

Sunday May 27, 2012 1:00pm-2:00pm

Come and explore the wonderful world of water (vernal pools) at the Albany Pine Bush.  We will observe different habitats, participate in pond sampling and discover the intricate balance of this amazing ecosystem.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

“Choose Your Own” GPS Adventure

Monday May 28, 2012, 11:00am-3:00pm

Grab YOUR GPS and head on over to the Pine Bush for a “choose your own” GPS adventure! You must provide your own GPS unit.  Participants will be given a list of waypoints located along the trails of the Pine Bush.  Your job is to use your GPS to navigate to them and discover the prize that awaits you!  The waypoints will be available at the start of the program, 11:00am.  The prizes will be removed at 3:30pm.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Registration Required

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Family Fun Hike

Monday May 28, 2012 1:00pm-2:00pm

Join us for a Monday afternoon stroll through the Albany Pine Bush Preserve.  Play some trail games with your guide and enjoy the beauty of the season.  We will hike approximately 1 mile over rolling terrain.  Please be sure to bring plenty of drinking water.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

First Friday Hike: Buckmoths on the Move!

Friday June 1, 2012, 12:00pm–1:00pm

Join us for a short walk to discover the amazing world of buckmoth caterpillars.  The buckmoth caterpillar emerges in late spring. It starts out very small and quickly grows to 3-4 inches, with hollow spines containing a poison. A species of special concern in New York State, the buckmoth is uniquely dependent on the scrub oak that thrives in this sandy fire-dependent ecosystem. Please remember to bring your binoculars!

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Wild Blue Lupine Walk

Saturday June 2, 2012 11:00am-12:00pm

Do you know why the wild blue lupine is so vital to the Albany Pine Bush and the survival of the Karner Blue Butterfly? Join us for this hour hike over rolling terrain to explore Karner blue butterfly habitat and discover wild blue lupine.  Please meet at the Discovery Center.  We will caravan over to the Madison Avenue trailhead at the beginning of the program. Please wear long pants, long-sleeve shirt, sturdy walking shoes and bring a drink.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Whimsical Wildflower Walk

Sunday June 3, 2012 1:00pm-2:00pm

Come walk with us to explore beautiful summer flowers of the Albany Pine Bush.  We will be hiking 1 mile over rolling topography.  Please remember to wear sturdy walking shoes, long pants and bring drinking water. 

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Full Moon Hike

Monday June 4, 2012, 8:00pm-9:00pm

Enjoy the Pine Bush at night with an hour long hike under the full moon. We will walk approximately 1 mile over rolling topography stopping intermittently for night vision and sound observations. Please remember to dress appropriately for the weather.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Wild, Wet and Wacky World of Pond

Saturday June 9, 2012 1:00pm-3:00pm

Come and explore the wonderful world of water (vernal pools) at the Albany Pine Bush.  We will observe different habitats, participate in pond sampling, identify various organisms, and discover the intricate balance of this amazing ecosystem. Dress in footwear and clothing you don’t mind getting wet and dirty.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Karner Blue Butterfly Walk

Sunday June 10, 2012, 1:00pm-2:00pm

Don’t miss this chance to join Albany Pine Bush staff on a hike in the Pine Bush Preserve to see the Karner blue butterfly.  Once common in the glacial Lake Albany sand belt, the Karner blue has plummeted in numbers over the past 40 years and is now listed as a federally endangered species.  Come learn about the natural history of the Karner blue and what efforts are underway to rescue this species from the brink of extinction.  Bring along your camera, sturdy walking shoes and drinking water.  Please register early-this program fills up quickly!

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

BRAIN break!

Thursday June 14, 2012, 3:00pm-4:30pm

Give your brain a break and your feet a workout on this 2.5 mile FUN hike through the Albany Pine Bush Preserve.  As school comes to a close, students are running their brains in high gear for their end of year exams. This hike will get your heart pumping to help you shake those exam stresses!  Please be prepared for the weather.  Wear long pants, long socks and good hiking shoes and bring plenty of water!

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Trash into Treasure Drop-in Craft Program

Saturday June 16, 2012, 1:00pm – 2:30pm

One person’s trash is another person’s treasure.  Drop in the Discovery Center between 1:00pm and 2:30pm and create unique crafts to take home!

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE.  Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Father/Daughter Hike

Sunday June 17, 2012, 1:00pm-2:00pm

Daughters bring your favorite Dad to the Pine Bush for this 1 hour hike.  We will take an extraordinary journey into the Albany Pine Bush, the best remaining example of an inland pine barrens. Our experts will guide you through this 1.0 mile hike over rolling sand dunes where you will discover Pine Bush natural history, seasonal surprises and transformations. Please remember to wear sturdy walking shoes, long pants and bring drinking water.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Summer Solstice Sunset Hike

Wednesday June 20, 2012, 7:30pm-9:00pm

Enjoy the longest day of the year, watch the sun set while hiking the Albany Pine Bush Preserve. We will explore several habitats, seasonal changes, while hiking 1.0 mile over rolling topography. Please remember to wear sturdy walking shoes, long pants and bring drinking water

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Science Lecture Series: Landfill Restoration

Thursday June 21, 2012 7:00pm-8:00pm

Balancing the needs of society and human development with preservation of natural areas can be a very difficult task but by working to bring these two groups together we can take substantial steps forward in providing important services and lasting ecological benefits to the community. In this presentation, Christopher Einstein Principal Planner for Clough, Harbor & Associates and Nathan Carlton, Restoration Ecologist for Applied Ecological Services will discuss the evolution of the Albany Rapp Road Landfill Restoration project, where it fits into the mission of the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission, and the current status of the project.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Bringing it Back Restoration Hike

Saturday June 23, 2012 10:30am-12:00pm

Come witness the transformation of the Pine Bush. Through habitat management, the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission is restoring the Pine Bush to an open pine barrens. Join us for a hike along the trails and learn how the Commission is bringing this globally rare community back. We will be hiking approximately 2 miles over moderate terrain. Please remember to wear sturdy walking shoes, long pants and bring drinking water.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Aerial Acrobats

Sunday June 24, 2012 1:00pm-2:00pm

Powerful, talented, and gentle giants of the Pine Bush, hawks and owls are year-round residents. Learn why the Pine Bush is an important habitat for these birds of prey. Come join us for an informative program about these remarkable creatures. Discover how they hunt, their unique calls, and distinctive characteristics. There will be an indoor presentation followed by a hike. Binoculars provided.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Batty for Bats

Tuesday June 26, 2012, 7:00pm-8:30pm

Bats are an important part of our ecosystem. However, their numbers are decreasing at an alarming rate. This night hike will offer a glimpse into the adaptations of bats to the nocturnal world.  We will keep our eyes open for the four species of bats that live in the preserve as we learn about their unique characteristics. Discover what you have in common with bats and how you can help to conserve them.  A short inside presentation followed by an outside hike. Remember to wear sturdy walking shoes, long pants, and bring drinking water.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

School’s Out Hike

Wednesday June 27, 2012, 10:00am-11:30am

YEAH! School’s out and what a great way to celebrate by getting outdoors for a hike. Kids bring your parents for a 1.5 hour hike over rolling sand dunes. We will explore this rare ecosystem through hand on activities and discover many seasonal surprises. Remember to wear sturdy walking shoes, long pants, and bring drinking water.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Insect Investigation

Thursday June 28, 2012, 10:00am – 11:30am

They fly, they wiggle, they crawl, and they leap. It’s the amazing world of insects! This is a family friendly hike to investigate the different types of insects that live here in the Pine Bush. There will be opportunities for hands on activities and exploration. We will be hiking 1.0 mile over rolling sand dunes. Please remember to wear sturdy walking shoes, long pants and bring drinking water.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

Antlions: Ferocious Creatures in the Sand

Saturday June 30, 2012 11:00am-12:00pm

Join us for a walk to discover the amazing world of antlions; a unique insect in the Pine Bush. We will walk to a variety of different habitats to explore antlion pits and be able to investigate larva up close and personal. Don’t miss this opportunity to explore an interesting detail of the Albany Pine Bush Preserve. Please remember to wear sturdy walking shoes, long pants and bring drinking water.

Location: Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center, 195 New Karner Road, Albany, NY

Fee: $3 per person/$5 per family/Children under 5 yrs FREE. Registration required.

Please sign up by calling 518-456-0655 or visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar”.

BACKGROUND INFORMATION ON THE PINE BUSH:

Located within the Capital District Region, the Albany Pine Bush’s gently rolling sand plain is home to a variety of rare plants and animals, including the Federally-endangered Karner blue butterfly. The 3,200-acre Albany Pine Bush Preserve also creates a special habitat for a number of other rare and unique plants and animals, while providing visitors with an assortment of non-motorized recreational opportunities including hiking, jogging, nature study, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, mountain biking, hunting, fishing and canoeing.

The Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center transforms this globally unique destination into an exciting adventure where learning comes naturally through hands-on activities. As the gateway to the Pine Bush, the Discovery Center introduces visitors to everything that makes the Preserve rare and adventurous. With the help of many volunteers, the Discovery Center offers monthly outings and programs about the ecology, natural and cultural history of the Pine Bush area.  Admission is FREE. The Center is open Tuesday-Friday 9AM-4PM, Saturday and Sunday 10AM-4PM, and on most holiday Mondays. The Discovery Center is ideal for training sessions, meetings, small conferences, special events, business retreats and private parties. The state-of-the-art LEED “Gold” green building features 1,484 square feet of meeting room space; three fully AV equipped, Wi-Fi accessible meeting rooms; a unique greeting area with 3,500 square feet of interactive nature center exhibits; and kitchen space for catered meal prep/storage.  For more information, visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org or call 518-456-0655.

“Bridging the Implementation Gap” Bird Conservation Conference
in the Northeast
and
International Rusty Blackbird Workshop

OCTOBER 16-19, 2012
at the Radisson Hotel, Plymouth, Massachusetts

www.birdconservationconference.org

Two years after the highly successful Bird Conservation Conference in the Northeast, another regional bird conference will be held in October 2012. This conference will again be in the historic coastal town of Plymouth, Massachusetts. With a conference theme of “Bridging the Implementation Gap,” a diverse representation of the bird conservation community will come together in plenaries, presentation sessions, and work sessions to collaboratively struggle with how we can best ensure that existing well-developed, science-based conservation priorities and plans are translated into effective conservation on the ground. The conference will include collaborative work sessions that explore how to engage appropriate audiences to effectively implement conservation priorities.

The Rusty Blackbird Workshop(Oct. 16-18) will be held in conjunction with the Bird Conservation Conference(Oct. 17-19) to facilitate participation in both meetings by as many participants as possible. The workshop will provide opportunities to discuss past efforts, progress, and future strategies for Rusty Blackbird conservation.

Thanks to Mass Audubon for serving as our local host and to Northeast Partners in Flight, Northeast Coordinated Bird Monitoring, and Bird Education Alliance for Conservation for organizing the conference.

Contact Ashley Dayer (aad86@cornell.edu) or Randy Dettmers (Randy_Dettmers@fws.gov) for more information.

The Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center at 195 New Karner Road in Albany will host an online conference for museum and other interested professionals that focuses on mobile applications for natural or cultural history interpretation on May 8^th and 9^th. This conference will give participants the chance to meet and interact with colleagues working in mobile interpretation from around the globe and walk away with practical knowledge that can be put to use immediately. Specifically, the Museums & Mobile IV conference will explore serving the growing mobile youth market, review and assess tablet-based mobile experiences, and review 2012 Museums & Mobile Survey findings.

The production of the Museums & Mobile IV is a collaboration between Pocket-Proof and LearningTimes. Pocket-Proof is an independent design consultancy specializing in the planning, design and development of mobile experiences for cultural institutions and LearningTimes offers an array of online professional development programs. As host, the Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center will cover the group conference registration fees.  The $20 per day registration fee covers lunch and room/staffing costs.

For more information and to register for either or both days, please visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar” at the top of the page or call 518-456-0655.

May 8^th, 2012 11:30am – 4:00pm

Pre-conference workshops

Workshop 1: Planning Your Next Mobile Experience: A Step-by-Step Master Class. Delivering a successful mobile experience requires a range of expertise: from technology selection and content development, to production, marketing, and distribution. This master class will guide participants through the decision-making processes pertaining to each of these steps with the objective of ensuring that the resulting mobile experiences deliver strong, sustainable visitor experiences. Workshop Leaders: Nancy Proctor, Head of Mobile Strategy, Smithsonian Institute, USA and Eric Longo, Consultant, Longo Consulting, USA

Workshop 2: An Introduction to TAP, an Opensource Mobile Project. TAP is an opensource mobile CMS and suite of mobile applications originally developed by the Indianapolis Museum of Art (IMA), which has been used to deliver mobile experience at institutions including the IMA, Boston Museum of Fine Arts, Balboa Park Online Collaborative, and Crystal Bridges Museum of American Art. Workshop Leaders: Charles Moad, Director of IMA Lab, Indianapolis Museum of Art, USA and Kyle Jaebker, Application Development Manager, Indianapolis Museum of Art, USA

May 9^th, 2012 11:30am – 5:00pm

Museums & Mobile IV is an online conference focused on first-hand museum accounts of lessons learned in the delivery and operation of mobile experiences. These interactive case studies address project delivery, experience design, content production, technology solutions and operational requirements. The expressed aim of the event is that conference delegates leave with clear and actionable guidelines that will help them successfully and efficiently deliver mobile projects at their institutions.

Located within the Capital District Region, the Albany Pine Bush’s gently rolling sand plain is home to a variety of rare plants and animals, including the Federally-endangered Karner blue butterfly. The Albany Pine Bush Preserve also creates a special habitat for a number of other rare and unique plants and animals, while providing visitors with an assortment of non-motorized recreational opportunities including hiking, jogging, nature study, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, mountain biking, hunting, fishing and canoeing.

The Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center transforms this globally unique destination into an exciting adventure where learning comes naturally through hands-on activities. As the gateway to the Pine Bush, the Discovery Center introduces visitors to everything that makes the Preserve rare and adventurous. With the help of many volunteers, the Discovery Center offers monthly outings and programs about the ecology, natural and cultural history of the Pine Bush area.  Admission is free. The center is open Tuesday-Friday 9AM-4PM, Saturday and Sunday 10AM-4PM, and on most holiday Mondays. The Discovery Center is ideal for training sessions, meetings, small conferences, special events, business retreats and private parties. The state-of-the-art LEED “Gold” green building features 1,484 square feet of meeting room space; three fully AV equipped, WiFi accessible meeting rooms; a unique greeting area with 3,500 square feet of interactive nature center exhibits; and kitchen space for catered meal prep/storage. For more information, visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org or call 518-456-0655.

Announcing the 2012 Bartlett Award

Applications are now being accepted for the Richard C. Bartlett Environmental Education Award.

A visionary, Richard C. Bartlett (1935-2011) inspired environmental educators nationwide. He believed that education is critical to preserving the natural world for future generations. His commitment to conservation and environmental education spanned over four decades.

NEEF seeks to honor an outstanding high school teacher who successfully integrates environmental education into their curriculum and engages students in interdisciplinary solutions to environmental challenges. The award recognizes an educator who can serve as an inspiration and model for others.

Teachers serving grades 9-12 in the United States are eligible to apply. The winning teacher will receive an award of $5,000 to support their work in environmental education. The award will be announced in August 2012. Two teachers will win $750 merit awards.

Applications are due June 8, 2012. Nominate yourself or a teacher you know today! The Richard C. Bartlett Environmental Education Award is made possible through the generous support of Baxter Healthcare Corporation.

JULY 22-25, 2012

ANTLERS OUTDOOR EDUCATION CENTER

on

RAQUETTE LAKE in the
ADIRONDACKS

Join veteran naturalists for an educational week of nature and environmental activities

Photos by: Rhonda Jacobs

We’ll explore various habitats and look in depth at the inhabitants and their roles in the ecosystem.

Benefits:
* Hands-on lessons in the field
* Meets NYS Learning Standards
* In-service credit

Ecosystems we”ll visit:

* Forest
* Field
* Pond
* Bog
* Stream

Workshops may include:

* Birds
* Dichotomous keys
* Owl ecology
* Mammals
* Trees
* Wildflowers
* Non-flowering Plants
* Reptiles and Amphibians
* Mushrooms
* Insects

Cost:  $350

(includes meals, lodging, and all instructional activities)

Deadline is July 1, 2012

QUESTIONS?

Contact Fred von Mechow:
607.674.4214
fpvonmechow (at) gmail.com

THE PINE BUSH CELEBRATES EARTH DAY

(ALBANY, NY) – The globally-rare ecosystem of the Albany Pine Bush Preserve provides a unique environment in which to celebrate Earth Day weekend. With a varied array of activities and programs, children, families, neighbors and employees of Capital Region businesses will enjoy all that the 3,200 acre Albany Pine Bush and its state of the art interpretive center have to offer.  The activities begin on Friday, April 20, 2012 at the Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center at 195 New Karner Road in Albany with a 10:00am program called Pine Bush Pups: Happy Earth Day! for pre-school age children. On Saturday, April 21^st participants of all ages will gather at 9:00AM at the Discovery Center to work on a variety of conservation projects including: trails work, pulling invasive honeysuckle, tree planting, trash clean-up, and boundary posting.  Other events on Saturday include a program about spring flowers at 11:00am and tours at 1:00pm and 2:30pm to learn about the many ways the LEED “Gold” certified Discovery Center uses green technology and sustainable materials. Volunteer opportunities continue on Sunday, April 22^nd with service projects at 10:00am and 1:00pm. The Discovery Center is also open all weekend with exhibits geared to all ages.  Registration is required for all programs, please visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org and click on “Events Calendar” at the top of the page or call 518-456-0655.

Located within the Capital District Region, the Albany Pine Bush’s gently rolling sand plain is home to a variety of rare plants and animals, including the Federally-endangered Karner blue butterfly. The Albany Pine Bush Preserve also creates a special habitat for a number of other rare and unique plants and animals, while providing visitors with an assortment of non-motorized recreational opportunities including hiking, jogging, nature study, cross-country skiing, horseback riding, mountain biking, hunting, fishing and canoeing.

The Albany Pine Bush Discovery Center transforms this globally unique destination into an exciting adventure where learning comes naturally through hands-on activities. As the gateway to the Pine Bush, the Discovery Center introduces visitors to everything that makes the Preserve rare and adventurous. With the help of many volunteers, the Discovery Center offers monthly outings and programs about the ecology, natural and cultural history of the Pine Bush area.  Admission is free. The center is open Tuesday-Friday 9AM-4PM, Saturday and Sunday 10AM-4PM, and on most holiday Mondays. The center is also available for private parties and meeting rentals.   For more information, visit www.AlbanyPineBush.org or call 518-456-0655.