After introductions to the concepts of biodiversity and stewardship on global and local levels, students will make their first visit to Honouliuli Preserve and hike on the historic Contour Trail. They well learn about the land area’s history and the management challenges of today. They well learn about native and alien species, including their cultural uses. They will follow proper techniques for collecting plant material for propagation. Back at school, they will experiment with various propagation techniques to grow native plants.
Students will learn basic mapping concepts, including how to read topographic maps and how GPS (Global Positioning System) and GIS (Global Information System) are used in conservation. They will learn various techniques to monitor plants and animals. At the preserve, students will make their first visit to their plot and practice mapping and monitoring techniques while collecting data for analysis back in the classroom.
Invasive
Alien Species Control (Module 3)
Students will learn the impact that invasive alien species have on native ecosystems, and on Hawaii’s natural communities, in particular. They will learn how they can help protect sensitive habitats from the spread of there species. They will devise and implement a strategy for the removal of alien species in their plot.
Native
Restoration (Module 4)
Students will study aspects of different native natural community types. They will learn about various techniques used in restoration and will begin the restoration process of their plot to a native natural community by out-planting native plants and developing strategies to enhance their chances of survival. They will remonitor their plots and modify their maps to reflect the changes made. Students will compile the information they learned throughout Project Stewardship and understand how the modules fit together.