Earth Partnership Educational Program

Arjaa Institute participated in a significant educational program for earth and environmental restoration with the University of Wisconsin-Madison.

Participating Organizations

• Arjaa Institute for Research, Development, and Sustainable Advancement (AIRDUSA)

• University of Wisconsin in Madison

• Richard D. Hall, Prairie

• Verna M. Krognes, Prairie, Executive Director

• Cheryl Bauer Armstrong, Earth Partnership Director

• Maria Moreno, Ph.D., Earth Partnership Faculty Associate

• Claire Shaller Bork, Ph.D., Earth Partnership Outreach Specialist and Researcher

• Hanasa Organization

• Kurdistan Regional Government (KRG) Delegation: Universities of Zakho, Dohuk, Sulaymaniyah, and Chemchemal

Program Overview

The Earth Partnership educational program collaborates with diverse communities to foster ecological restoration through educational initiatives and hands-on activities. The program aims to develop outdoor learning spaces and cultivate a sense of stewardship and connection to the environment.

Methodology

1. Collaborative Engagement: Partnering with communities to develop vibrant outdoor learning environments.

2. 10-Step Ecological Restoration Process: A structured, curriculum-based approach guiding communities through restoration efforts.

3. Facilitated Dialogue: Encouraging relationship-building and dialogue to identify shared visions for stewardship.

4. Educational Training: Providing restoration education through:

• Professional Development for Educators

• Youth Programming

• Family and Community Engagement
  

Mission

To engage educators and learners of all ages and backgrounds in community-based ecological restoration for the promotion of healthy environments.

Vision

To inspire global communities to actively participate in ecological restoration, fostering connections between people and the land through a shared commitment to stewardship.

Goals and Objectives

• Educational Integration: Equipping educators with the necessary training and resources to incorporate ecological restoration into their curricula.

• Community Engagement: Building stronger communities through collaborative restoration projects.

• Sustainability: Promoting sustainable practices and the responsible stewardship of natural resources.

• Youth Involvement: Encouraging the active participation of youth in environmental activities to cultivate future environmental leaders.

Program Benefits

• Enhanced Educational Environments: Developing outdoor learning spaces to enrich educational experiences.

• Community Cohesion: Strengthening community bonds through collaborative efforts and shared objectives.

• Environmental Stewardship: Raising awareness and fostering a commitment to the preservation and restoration of the environment.

The 10-Step Ecological Restoration Process

1. Connect to Community Resources and Partners: Establish relationships with local organizations and individuals who can support the restoration project.

2. Study Native Species, Habitats, and Ecosystems: Research local flora and fauna, and understand the natural habitats and ecosystems of the area.

3. Investigate Written and Oral Site History and Landscape Patterns: Explore the historical context of the site, including past and present landscape patterns.

4. Analyze Soil, Water, Slope, Sun/Shade, Vegetation, Physical and Aesthetic Qualities: Conduct a thorough assessment of the site's environmental conditions.

5. Plan: Design a restoration project such as a butterfly garden, rain garden, grassland, woodland, or wetland restoration.

6. Prepare the Site: Remove existing vegetation and layout the design according to the restoration plan.

7. Plant: Sow seeds, transplant seedlings, and involve the community in a celebratory planting event.

8. Manage: Maintain the site by removing invasive species, creating informative signage, and conducting ongoing research.

9. Research: Encourage questions, make observations, and use evidence-based methods to address ecological queries.

10. Learn: Integrate subjects such as language arts, science, math, social studies, music, art, life skills, and a love for nature into the restoration project.

The Earth Partnership educational program embodies a comprehensive approach to ecological restoration, emphasizing the importance of community engagement, education, and sustainability in fostering healthy environments worldwide.