One of the missions of the Friends' group is to maintain a conservancy for nature study and environmental education, using the natural habitats of the park as an outdoor classroom. Community science monitoring programs are a means to collect information about natural phenomena occurring on park grounds and landscapes. Information collected will contribute to broad-scale ecological research efforts within state and regional networks. If you like to spend time outside, learn and contribute to scientific discoveries and make connections with the natural world, this is the program for you!
See the table below for upcoming opportunties in 2020. No experience necessary. Training, data sheets and supplies will be provided. Ideal activity for Master Naturalists, Master Gardeners, classes, families, service groups and scout troops.
Contact Amy Jo at the farm office to get started or with questions about which project is right for you or your child.
| Project | Frequency | Time | Equipment | Training |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Monarch Larvae Monitoring | weekly or bi-monthly from May to September | any; dependent on # of plants surveyed | sampling sheets, ID cards | Some; learn data sheet & caterpillar larvae stages |
| Great Sunflower Project | 3 or more times during growing season | at least 5 minutes each time | sampling sheets, insect ID cards | Minimal |
| Lost Ladybug Project | any | any | camera (phone is fine), ladybug ID cards, photo upload form | Minimal |
| WI First Detector Network Invasive Plant Species Reporting | monthly; depending on target species | typically about 1 hour | phone with EDD Maps app installed (free) | Moderate; learn target plant ID & phone app (user-friendly) |
The Center for Rural History is now open and rental opportunities available. Click the 'RENTAL' button at top of the website for more information.
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