Conservation through education : the importance of citizen involvement in the conservation of pollinators
(Book - Regular Print)

Thesis,MSES,Green Mountain College,2017

Includes bibliographical references.

Pollinators are responsible for the reproduction of over two-thirds of the world's crop species and provide an ecosystem service currently valued at $167 billion. The health and survival of pollinator species are threatened primarily by habitat loss and the increased use of herbicides and pesticides. Promoting a scientifically-literate public through hands-on conservation activities has been shown to increase nature awareness in individuals in urban locations; subsequently, increasing the willingness to act on behalf of the environment. To increase urban youth involvement in pollinator conservation, a Monarch Waystation and pollinator garden was constructed to provide an environmental connection and educational opportunity to the students who attend the Booker T. Washington Community Center in Auburn, New York. To foster pollinator awareness and stewardship among local citizens, an educational opportunity was developed and held at the initial planting of a Permaculture Park within the urban town. Finally, a comprehensive "how-to" guide for creating pollinator and food gardens was developed to reference this project as a model for future pollinator gardening projects in additional communities.