School: North Kansas City High School
Class: Environmental Science
Instructor: Tyler McSparin
Client: North Kansas City Parks and Recreation
Problem: How can we redesign a portion of Macken Park into a pollinator garden that maximizes environmental benefit and human benefit?
Summary of Project
Students engaged with a project that the North Kansas City Parks and Rec department had already started. The city was in the process of converting one acre of unused grass in Macken Park into a pollinator garden. The city had limited plans for development beyond simply planting native seeds. Students identified ways that the city could enhance the area to make it more beneficial to the environment and the community. Students created proposals for the city. Ideas included installing birdhouses, insect hotels, walking paths, and interpretive signage. The proposals were evaluated by the city and students received feedback from the client.
Key Takeaways or Advice
Be organized up front. Set solid deadlines for the students. Have more than 1 student able to communicate with clients.
Learning Standards
- I can design, evaluate, and refine a solution for reducing the impact of human activity on ecosystems.