Back to NativesRESTORATION

BTN Service Learning

Service learning is a teaching and learning strategy that integrates meaningful community service with instruction and reflection to enrich the learning experience, teach civic responsibility, and strengthen communities. Back to Native’s service learning program is designed to introduce students to ecological concepts through hands-on experience in the field and community service. Service Learning participants are usually High School and College aged students, however, elementary and middle school students can benefit significantly from participating in service learning programs as well.

Back to Natives supplies equipment and instruction for habitat quality monitoring, biological assessments, and wildlife surveys. The program is intended to generate interest in the environment, and introduce potential careers in the environmental field.

Service learning programs differ significantly depending on the projects available and interests and goals of the participants. During the course of a basic program students will:
* Visit the project area to investigate and record the biotic and abiotic factors present.
* Re-visit the project area, where they will remove invasive species and plant native plants.
* Visit the same habitat restoration site (several months later) to investigate ecosystem changes.
* Re-visit the project area, where they will remove invasive species and monitor the health of the native plants.

Service learning projects can take place in open space anywhere - on your campus or in a nearby County or State Park. If you are interested in having your group or class participate in this program or have any questions please contact Reggie at 949-509-4787.