PUSLINCH ECOLOGICAL ASSOCIATION

We have added a few new activities to the workshops including: Bees and Pollinators: Exploring honeycomb a bee frame (from a Layens hive) and parts of bees and other pollinators under a microscope children will gain an in depth understanding of a bee's life and how bees and other pollinators support our ecosystems. We will also explore simple ways that we can help to increase our pollinator populations. Invasive species or remediators: The activity will encourage children to look beyond the term 'invasive' and help them to understand that many plants and insects that we label as 'invasive' are merely doing their part to bring an ecosystem back into balance. Phragmite australis (listed as Canada's worst invasive species) will be our primary example. Dried and live specimen will be utilized to illustrate how this reed's biomass may help to remediate the soil and protect an ecosystem from toxic inputs. Beetles in the Environment: This interactive activity gives children the chance to understand the importance of composters and the role that they play in nutrient cycling. From egg to beetle participants will be able to see and touch live specimens - if they dare. Worms and Soil: For this activity children are able to explore the dark mucky world of worms. They will investigate the many important roles that worms play in the soil and how we can use worms in our home to divert waste from landfills! Children will be able to see a vermicompost in action and feed the worms one of their favourite meals! Chickens in the Garden: During this activity children will investigate the interesting role that chickens play in the remediation of soil. Participants will come to understand that chicken compost is beneficial as it promotes a good environment for remediator bacteria.