February News
Funding Sources and Upcoming Deadlines
In The News
Partner Updates and Resources
Your Virginia
Assorted Items of Professional Interest
Funding sources and upcoming deadlines
NAAEE Call for Presentations Announced
Deadline: February 22, 2006
North American Association for Environmental Education (NAAEE) Call for Presentation Proposals for the 35th Annual NAAEE CApril 5, 2006 Society," (October 10-14) & Third Research Symposium: "Continuing the Dialogue: Moving into the Future," (October 9-10), in St. Paul MN . For information contact: conferencestaff@naaee.org
http://naaee.org/pages/conferences/index.htmlApril 5, 2006/strong> Jefferson Award for Natural Science Education
Deadline for nominations is March 4, 2006
The Virginia Museum of Natural History will hold its 19th Annual Thomas Jefferson Awards on May 3, 2006 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the Chatmoss Country Club in Martinsville. The Museum invites nominations for the following: the Thomas Jefferson Medal For Outstanding Contributions to Natural Science and Natural Science Education, the William Barton Rogers Corporate and Individual Awards, the Matthew Fontaine Maury Distinguished Service Award to either an Individual or Organization. Award nominations www.vmnh.net can come form any level of education. Visit www.vanaturally.com/pdf/tjmedal.pdf or contact Dennis A. Casey, Ph. D., Director of Education and Public Programs at dcasey@vmnh.net
A Valuable Water Opportunity for Virginia Communities
Applications due March 7, 2006
Service Training for Environmental Progress, or STEP, places college students (graduate students, recent graduates, seniors, or juniors) in communities to investigate and gather data on water-related environmental issues identified by the community. For summer 2006, STEP plans to place students on two or three projects in Virginia communities. Students receive training designed to prepare them for a range of water-quality issues or activities with which communities might need technical assistance, such as testing well water or setting up a surface water-monitoring network. Student activities include field and library research, writing a project report, and presenting findings to the community. www.vtserves.vt.edu/dd/STEP.html.
If you need assistance with a water-related issue, a STEP project may be for you. Applications for summer 2006 are due March 7, 2006 . Following receipt of your application, STEP will contact you by phone and arrange a community visit. Selection of the communities for 2006 will be completed by March 24. Students will be at their sites June 1—August 3. (Dates may vary slightly from those mentioned.) Contact Alan Raflo, Virginia Water Resources Research Center , (540) 231-5463; e-mail araflo@vt.edu.
EPA Schools Chemical Cleanout Campaign (SC3)Grant Solicitation
Deadline: March 22, 2006
Candidates should apply for grants under the solicitation described at www.epa.gov/epaoswer/osw/conserve/clusters/schools/ which is a broad RCC solicitation. SC3 work should fit under the terms of the solicitation. (Note: Initial proposals are due February 6, 2006 .) Final proposals are due on March 22nd. Grantees in any region can apply to headquarters as long as they meet the stated criteria. Contact Kristina (Krysia) L. Meson, EPA/Office of Solid Waste/HWMMD, EPA Peer Support and CISM Team 703-308-8488 meson.kristina@epa.gov
U.S. Department of Education (ED) Seeks Nominations for American Stars of Teaching Deadline for nominations is April 15, 2006.
ED plans to honor outstanding classroom teachers through the American Stars of Teaching program. The Department's Teacher-to-Teacher Initiative is seeking nominations and information about teachers who are improving student achievement, using innovative strategies in the classroom, and making a difference in the lives of their students. Teachers across all grade levels and disciplines will be honored this fall as 2006 American Stars of Teaching. Parents, students, colleagues, school administrators, and others can nominate an exemplary teacher who they believe has the qualities to be an American Star of Teaching. One teacher will be recognized from each state. www.teacherquality.us/TeacherToTeacher/AmericanStars.asp).
More Grants and Funding Resources
For a complete listing of current grant and funding resources: www.vanaturally.com/grants.html
Albemarle-Pamlico National Estuary Program (APNEP) has grants available!
The Albemarle-Pamlico National Estuary Program, a partnership between US EPA, the NC DENR and VA DCR is requesting proposals for schoolyard environmental demonstration projects throughout the program region. Demonstration project proposals are being solicited from schools, government agencies and nonprofit organizations within the program area. The projects must address water quality, vital habitats, fisheries or stewardship, and include an on-site environmental issue and have an environmental education component. Of the total amount, $25,000 will be allocated to projects occurring in the Virginia portion of the APNEP region. For more information contact Kelly Williams at (919) 715-4074 or Kelly.williams@ncmail.net To get an application and a copy of the Comprehensive Conservation and Management Plan, visit the APNEP Web site at www.apnep.org
Kaine appoints environmentalists to state posts
By Scott Harper, The Virginian- Pilot
Gov. Tim Kaine has appointed two environmentalists to help shape his policies for protecting natural resources in Virginia, and also has named a new director of the state Department of Environmental Quality. http://home.hamptonroads.com/stories/story.cfm?story=98228&ran=62359
Kaine announced that David K. Paylor, a 25-year veteran of environmental regulation and a former deputy to Murphy, will be the new director of the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). Paylor will replace Robert Burnley. Paylor’s career began in 1973 with the State Water Control Board and continued with DEQ. www.deq.state.va.us/info/bio.html
Historic State Park Building Renamed for Tayloe and Helen Murphy
Governor Timothy M. Kaine announced that a historic building at Westmoreland State Park will be renovated and renamed Tayloe and Helen Murphy Hall in honor of former Delegate and Virginia Secretary of Natural Resources W. Tayloe Murphy Jr. and his wife Helen. The building, which once served as the Park’s restaurant, is being renovated by the Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) to serve as a site for meetings, special events and environmental education. “This is a meaningful way to show our appreciation to Tayloe and Helen Murphy for years of service to the people and natural resources of Virginia ,” said Governor Kaine. “Developing this facility in Westmoreland County , overlooking the Potomac River , is a tangible recognition of what this formidable team has accomplished for the Commonwealth.” Complete press release can be found at http://asp.vi.virginia.gov/news/anmviewer.asp?a=288&z=2
Welcome New Partners
- Beagle Ridge Herb Farm and Environmental Education Center, Your Outdoor Classroom in the Blue Ridge
- Cooper Elementary Magnet School for Technology (VaN Exemplary School)
- Friends of Quanderbrook and Belle Haven Watersheds
- Halifax County SWCD
- Northern Virginia Conservation Trust
- Staunton River Battlefield State Park
- USDA, NRCS- Old Dominion RC&D
- Virginia Middle School Association (VMSA)
New! VaNaturally Partner Resource Website
A partner resource page has been added to the partner page. This will allow partners to have their events and resources posted as well as learn about ways to get involved in their communities. www.vanaturally.com/partner_resources.html
Environment Photo Contest
Deadline: April 1, 2006
“Preservation,” the fifth Environment Virginia Photo Contest is open to entries through April 1. The contest, held in conjunction with the Environment VApril 5, 2006pril 5, 2006mateur photographers living in Virginia . A panel of judges will award gold, silver and bronze prizes- $400, $300 and $100, respectively- to winning photographs on the preservation theme. For contest details visit www.environmentva.org or call 540-464-7744.
“Reflections of Virginia ’s Waters” Contest
Deadline: April 28
A new K-12 art, creative writing and photography contest, called Reflections of Virginia’s Waters, is being sponsored by the Virginia Office of Environmental Education and the James River Association to support interdisciplinary water education, stream and river studies and meaningful educational experiences. The program is designed to complement the statewide the reflective phase of the statewide meaningful watershed education effort. Individual categories are available for each age-- elementary, middle and high-- as well as group/class project. Visit www.vanaturally.com/reflections.html for contest rules, and entry information, or contact Kris Jarvis at kdjarvis@deq.virginia.gov or Kim Hodge s at khodge@jamesriverassociation.org/
South Central VA Environmental Education (EE) Informal Planning Meeting February 16, Holiday Lake 4-H Center, Appomattox
Community Educators in the South Central Region are invited to attend an informal planning meeting from 10 am to noon ,to discuss program opportunities and obstacles, funding resources, potential partnerships, volunteer assistance. Our hope is to enhance working relationships between our schools, non formal education sites and volunteer groups to meet the environmental educational needs of this area. Please bring any information you might like to share. Call Mike Hayslett at 434-248-5444 if you plan to attend.
Great Backyard Bird Count
February 17-20, statewide
The Great Bird Count let’s anyone become a April 5, 2006m1 -->April 5, 2006dDate -->d by the National Audubon Society and Cornell Lab of Ornithology, the four day event encourages everyone to take a few minutes to count the species of birds in their yards. Every vote counts, whether you live in the country, suburbs or downtown areas. This project is a major source of scientific information about North American bird populations. For more call (800) 843-2473- visit www.birdsource.org/gbbc ; www.audubon.org or www.richmondaudubon.org
Citizens for Water Quality Winter Meeting
February 18th, UVA (exact building TBA)
The guest speaker is Michael Helfrich, Watershed Alliance of York. Mr. Helfrich will discuss his organization's interaction with state, county, and municipal governments. His motto, "Be Helpful, Be Respectful, and Be RIGHT!" has gained the respect of many government officials, so that even when there are disagreements, officials usually maintain open channels to find solutions.
RSVP by February 14, 2006 to Stacey Brown, 888-656-6664 or stacey@vasos.org. Event is from 10:00 am - 4:00 pm , sponsored by the Virginia Water Monitoring Council
Project Underground Facilitator Training
March 1- 2, Douthat State Park
Interested in becoming a Project Underground facilitator? The training program will include a two-day meeting from Wednesday, March 1 at 9:00 a.m. to Thursday, March 2 at 4:00 p.m. at Douthat State Park , near Clifton Forge, Virginia. Lodging and meals will be provided at the park with participants sharing rooms with bunk beds. Lodging will be available for the nights Feb. 28 and March 1. There will also be an opportunity for educators only interested in receiving the Project Underground materials to attend for 6 hours the first day, Wed. March 1. This program is being sponsored by DCR through an EPA grant. The only cost to the participants will be a $20 registration fee. Please call or e-mail Carol Zokaites, VA Karst Education Coordinator and Project Underwood Coordinator at (540) 831-4057 or carol.zokaites@dcr.virginia.gov
Teacher Training Retreat
February 24-25, Holiday Lake 4-H Center
Deadline is February 13- Registration is Limited
Attention school teachers and environmental educators! The Natural Resource Education department at Holiday Lake 4-H Center will be hosting a retreat for educators in the areas of Earth, Life, & Environmental Sciences or other Nature-related teaching. The program includes instruction and certification in either Project Learning Tree or Project Wild, with both indoor and outdoor activitApril 5, 2006approval from their supervisors. The fee of only $49.00 includes overnight accommodations in the Lake Lodge and Bunkhouse, the cost of all instruction and materials, dinner Friday evening, and breakfast, lunch, and a snack on Saturday. Participants need only bring their toiletries and bedding materials. Please register by February 13th. Space is limited to the first 25 registrants. For more information, please call (434) 248-5444. www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/holiday/
GPS Adventure 2006 Workshop
March 3- 4, 2006, Holiday Lake 4-H Center
This workshop will cover a variety of Global Positioning System topics: GPS receiver operation, using topographic maps and magnetic compasses in concert with GPS, digital mapping, incorporating GPS in natural resource & agriculture field work, and exploring ways to use GPS in youth education. Participants will be using our Virginia 4-H GPS Navigation Education Kits and/or other advanced GPS equipment in both e-classroom sessions and during a variety of field exercises (culminating with GPS Search & Rescue of "Bubba" the lost hunter!). We'll also be field-testing recent innovations in GPS receiver technology such as acreage measurement and GPS/FRS radio capabilities. The Virginia 4-H Natural Resources & Environmental Education (NREE) Curriculum Committee sponsors the workshop. Instructors: Dick Higgins, Staci England & Mike Clifford. The $44.00 fee covers registration, meals, lodging, and instructional materials.
For details and registration information www.ext.vt.edu/resources/4h/environment/gpsgis.html or contact Mike Clifford at: 804-561-5411 mjc4h@vt.edu
Virginia Department of Education
The Grade 4 Science Enhanced Scope and Sequence is now available and has
been posted at www.doe.virginia.gov/VDOE/EnhancedSandS/science.shtml.
Project Learning Tree (PLT) New Resource Pages by PreK-8 Activity Guide
An exciting new addition has been made to the website! Check out the resource pages by PLT activity for the 2006 PreK-8 Guide www.plt.org/cms/pages/21_21_10.html to access these new resource pages, click on “Curriculum,” then “PreK-8 Guide,” and then scroll down to "Resources for 2006 PreK-8 Guide by Activity.”
New Wetlands Publication Restoring Virginia ’s Wetlands - A Citizen’s Toolkit
Promotes the Voluntary Protection, Enhancement, Restoration and Creation of wetlands
The Alliance for the Chesapeake Bay announces the availability of its latest publication Restoring Virginia ’s Wetlands – A Citizen’s ToolKit . This resource promotes the voluntary protection, enhancement, restoration and creation of wetlands on private as well as public lands within the Commonwealth of Virginia . This Toolkit was prepared in partnership with the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ), through a grant award from the United States Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) Wetlands Program Development Grants initiative. The toolkit is best viewed in its electronic version as it contains bookmarks and many useful hyperlinks to other websites. An electronic version of the manual may be downloaded at no cost from the Alliance ’s website at /www.acb-online.org/project.cfm?vid=239 or from the DEQ’s website atwww.deq.virginia.gov/wetlands/volrestor.html . Printed copies are available upon special request at no cost (one copy per person) by contacting Stacey Moulds at smoulds@acb-online.org or 804-775-0951.
Wild About Math Resource Book
The Virginia Department of Game and Inland Fisheries and Virginia Environmental Endowment have produced a Wild About Math book using data from several of its wildlife research projects. The math problems are written to use with the TI 83 and TI 84 graphing calculators. The data may also be used with other calculators or as starting points in the discussion of wildlife ecology and management. Teachers may download the 72 page book at www.dgif.virginia.gov/education/resource_material.html For more information contact Suzie Gilley , Wildlife Education Coordinator, at 804-367-0188 or suzie.gilley@dgif.virginia.gov
Virginia Museum of Natural History
The Virginia Museum of Natural History, an agency of the Department of Natural Resources, seeks to increase understanding of and appreciation for the naturalApril 5, 2006ollections, publications, and exhibits. The museum – an affiliate of the Smithsonian Institution – is accredited by the American Association of Museums, a distinction earned by fewer than 10 percent of museums in the United States . With 22 million objects in its collection, it serves nearly 1 million people annually through on-site and traveling exhibitions, classroom outreach programs and public events.
A new Virginia Museum of Natural History debuts in Martinsville later this year. The new museum, with innovative, world-class permanent exhibits, will provide the highest level of quality interactive presentation and programming, with important research and inspirational education about Virginia’s rich geological and biological heritage. At 89,127 square feet, the new museum will offer five times more exhibit and public space than the current museum. A $5 million capital campaign – “Make a Lasting Impression” – is under way to raise funds for the permanent exhibits. NASCAR legend Ward Burton is among those leading the campaign. The new museum will help to improve education, quality of life and economic growth in the region and the Commonwealth. Once operational, museum attendance is expected to increase from 25,000 per year today to between 87,000 and 140,000 annually and attract visitors from throughout Virginia , North Carolina and other states in the region.
In September, the new museum opens with “Chinasaurs: The Great Dinosaurs of China,” the largest traveling exhibition of Chinese fossils ever to tour North America . The exhibit features fossils and skeleton recreations of dinosaurs that once roamed China .Also in September, the public will be able to visit the theater, education center and library, and will be able to see the new permanent exhibits being installed. Those permanent exhibits open in January 2007. Learn more by visiting www.vmnh.net
Virginia Natural Resource Agency News
For the latest information about VA’s seven natural resource agencies visit www.naturalresources.virginia.gov/Agencies/agency.cfm and click on the agency link you need.
Virginia State Parks Youth Corps (VSPYC)
The primary purpose of the Virginia State Parks Youth Corps is twofold: (1) It is aimed at youth development, including disadvantaged youth, and (2) it is a cost effective way to raise environmental awareness and strengthen stewardship of Virginia 's valuable natural resources. The program combines work experience, education and life skills development within the framework of environmental and community service. Recruitment for the summer began Jan. 1. Projects for 2006 are being planned for three weeks duration. Youth crews will consist of approximately 10 young people, ages 14 17 from diverse backgrounds, and three crew supervisors, college age or older. This team of young people will live in the park in a structured program of work and learning closely supervised by professional park staff and committed adult volunteers. By day, the crews carry out priority park development and maintenance projects, and after hours they take part in planned environmental education, team building, work life or job readiness training and recreational activities.www.dcr.virginia.gov/parks/ycc.htm
For additional information or questions, please contact Gaston Rouse at 703-583-5497, or email vspycc@dcr.virginia.gov
Help Improve Our Waters- Public Meetings Scheduled
People who are concerned about restoring “impaired” rivers, streams or lakes in their communities (those waters that don’t meet state standards) can participate in developing restoration plans. Since 1998, the Department of Environmental Quality has developed plans, with public input, to restore and maintain the water quality for the impaired waters. These plans are called "Total Maximum Daily Loads," or TMDLs. TMDL is a term that represents the total pollutant a water body can assimilate and still meet water quality standards. To learn about the streams in your area or the public meeting and comment schedule, please visit www.deq.virginia.gov/tmdl or www.vanaturally.com/partner_resources.html
Judges needed by the Virginia Junior Academy of Science
Register today!
The Virginia Junior Academy of Science needs judges on May 24, Blacksburg . Judges read (at most) 22 papers prior to hearing students presentations. Categories include: Agriculture and animal science, earth and space science, engineering, environmental science, genetics and cellular biology, math and statistics, medicine and health, microbiology, physical science (pilot), physics, psychology (general, learning and perception, and social), and zoology. Interested? Call Susan Booth , VJAS Director, 757-874-9301 or visit www.vjas.org
Assorted items of professional interest
National Youth Science Camp
Deadline: February 17, 2006
The National Youth Science Camp (NYSC) is an intense month-long camp for young scientists conducted during the summer after they graduate from high school. In a rustic setting, students from around the country are challenged academically in exciting lectures and hands-on studies. Participants have many opportunities to push themselves physically in an extensive outdoor program, gain a new and deep appreciation for the great outdoors, and establish friendships that last a lifetime. Information about the National Youth Science Camp and applications may be obtained at the National Youth Science Camp Web site www.nysc.org/ . The applications should be mailed to Eric Rhoades, Science Coordinator, VA DOE, www.doe.virginia.gov/VDOE/suptsmemos/2006/inf004.html
Beauty and Sustainability: Gardens for the 21 st Century Symposium
February 18, 2006 , ClevelandApril 5, 2006 As urbanization entwines with the natural systems, we have new opportunities to inspire beauty while creating habitats, celebrating water and rejuvenating soil. This symposium offers the opportunity to learn from internationally known landscape architects and designers how to apply principles of sustainability to gardens and landscapes.www.cbgarden.org
Chesapeake Classroom Summer Schedule
The Chesapeake Bay Foundation (CBF), supported by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) and the National Geographic Society, and the Chesapeake Bay Trust, invites you to participate in an unparalleled professional development experience: Chesapeake Classrooms . Through Chesapeake Classrooms , www.chesapeakeclassroom.org we will provide high-quality professional development that meets the evolving needs of teachers and schools, thereby enabling them to involve students in meaningful outdoor Bay or stream experiences that are aligned with local school systems standards.
"Earth: A Graphic Look at the State of the World” EE Resource
Newly published by the Global Education Project this comprehensive resource summarizes the conditions of the world's ecology and humanity and how they affect each other. Visually and factually stunning, this publication is a valuable tool for anyone teaching about or striving to understand the world's complex environmental and humanitarian challenges. Information, maps and graphics from the poster are also accessible on the accompanying website at www.theglobaleducationproject.org.
Nonpoint Source News - Notes from EPA January 2006, Vol. 77
Special Focus Issue: Environmental Education and Outreach
The EPA January newsletter included a special focus issue on environmental education. www.epa.gov/owow/info/NewsNotes
What To Do In Winter- Track Mammals
Now that it’s cold and the deciduous trees are bare, getting outside to observe nature can seem more trouble than it’s worth. But this “quiet season” conceals a lot of activity. After a snowfall some of that activity is revealed to the sharp- eyed observer. Many mammals are nocturnal and hard to spot, but a fresh coat of snow on the ground creates perfect conditions for documenting their movements. Tracks can be found just about anywhere, once you start looking. Take a copy of minutes to observe: you have a great chance to find out what your local animal population has been up to. Need some inspiration to get started? Go to www.firsthandlearning.org/tracks and solve the track mysteries.
Visit the National Wildlife Federation’s eNature site to download a free regional guide to mammals in your area at www.enature.com/articles/detail.asp?storyID=654
Informal Science: the focus in NSTA ’s Science Class
The focus of the January edition of Science Class was “informal science.” News, books and web resources provided highlight that science centers, museums, zoos, parks, and nature centers provide the perfect setting to encourage students to become lifelong science learners. The “Informal Science on the Web” section links the reader to a great article, “Learning Lessons Through Estuaries.” http://science.nsta.org/enewsletter/2006-01/member_high.htm
Environmental Literacy Council offers the following resources:
Science in the News: Climate Change
Weather is the condition of the atmosphere at a particular place and time such as on a single day, or for a single week. Climate, by contrast, refers to trends in weather over a longer period of time, such as 30 years. As one old saying puts it, "Climate is what you expect, weather is what you get." Learn more about the role of greenhouse gases in climate change, the Kyoto Protocol, and whether the rapid climate changes like those in The Day After Tomorrow could actually happen at: www.enviroliteracy.org/subcategory.php/8.htmlAnimals of the Artic: Polar Bears & Arctic Fox
Use our Creature Features on Polar Bears and the Arctic Fox to introduce students to the human impacts on the Arctic ecosystem. Our essays examine how climate change is affecting polar bear habitat, link you to photo galleries of the animals, and list polar bear tracking resources you can use in the classroom. For more, see: www.enviroliteracy.org/category.php?id=20Biomes: Tundra
One way of understanding differences in the ecological makeup of the earth's surface is to divide it into biomes. Biomes are regions of similar climate, soil, and vegetation that support the same types of organisms no matter where they are located on the planet. Climate is the most influential factor because it largely influences which organisms may live in a given area. See our page on Tundra biomes for more about the unique characteristics defining the Arctic region: www.enviroliteracy.org/subcategory.php/294.htmlCase Study: Arctic National Wildlife Refuge
The U.S. Geological Survey estimates that there are significant reservoirs of economically recoverable oil and gas buried beneath Alaska 's northern coastal plain. The locals want the economic benefits that come from developing such a lucrative resource. However, legislation prohibits oil and gas development in the 19 million acres of nearly pristine wilderness of the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. The intersection of economics and conservation makes an interesting case study for students to debate. Access the best sites for their research at: www.enviroliteracy.org/subcategory.php/150.htmlTeaching Resources: Climate Basic Concepts
Looking for a glossary of climate terms? We've created short descriptions of basic concepts such as albedo, the greenhouse effect, and the structure of the atmosphere at: www.enviroliteracy.org/subcategory.php/177.htmlTeaching Resources: Labs on Climate Change
Developed by an experienced team of environmental science educators, our Coastal Resources Debate Activity can easily be modified to incorporate Arctic themes by changing the listed resources. Access the activity and rubric at: www.enviroliteracy.org/subcategory.php/243.htmlFor a listing of great labs and activities related to climate see: www.enviroliteracy.org/article.php/248.html