Success Stories

Waco Elementary: Going with the Flow

Author: Brandon Darst

Major Program: Natural Resources

According to NOAA, water quality is a complex issue, impacted by pollution, weather, tides, human activities, and many other factors. In the Keys, threats to water quality are categorized as local, regional, or global in nature. Local threats are issues like stormwater runoff, wastewater, organic debris, sedimentation, and harmful vessel discharges.  The CES has been conducting a stream study for Waco Elementary 4th graders for around 15 years to help students realize their impact on our lo

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4-H Goes Wild (Environmental Field Day)

Author: Brandon Darst

Major Program: Natural Resources

According to Children’s Health Defense, “Less exposure to nature in youth has paralleled an increase in mental health disorders, persistent feelings of sadness and hopelessness and suicidal thoughts.” The article further explained that children are experiencing less production in the classrooms and test scores are declining. In an effort to combat these issues, the CES has brought back 4-H Goes Wild. The CES had routinely hosted the 4-H Goes Wild Environmental Field Day bu

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4-H Entomology Project Day: What's Bugging You

Author: Brandon Darst

Major Program: Natural Resources

The 4-H Entomology Day organized by CES was a resounding success, demonstrating both the effectiveness of hands-on learning and the power of engaging youth in natural resource education. With eight eager participants, the day was packed with valuable experiences. The group spent time in the field, catching a variety of insects, which provided an exciting opportunity to explore the diverse world of entomology. Following the collection activity, the youth were taught how to properly pin and preser

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