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Local School Club Takes Action to Restore Ecosystems Through Gardening

Update Local School Club Takes Action to Restore Ecosystems Through Gardening The passion of young minds can create a rippling effect in their local community, and nowhere is this more evident than at Neil Cummins Elementary School in Corte Madera. Here, the Ocean Guardian Club has stepped up to improve the ecosystem through an innovative approach: gardening. This club isn’t just another after-school activity; it’s a hands-on initiative where students learn the importance of preserving local ecosystems while having fun planting native gardens. Creating Lasting Change: Native Plant Gardens With approximately 15 dedicated members, the Ocean Guardian Club has already planted two native plant gardens on school grounds, showcasing the partnership between education and environmental stewardship. The club operates under the guidance of a program promoted by the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA), which empowers children to immerse themselves in their natural surroundings and foster connections with their local watersheds. Lessons and Activities That Align with Nature As fifth-grader Eva Chirko noted, her motivations for joining the club stem from both enjoyment and a desire to combat global warming. The students are taught about the significance of native plants, which are vital for watershed health—stabilizing soil, preventing erosion, and enhancing water retention. It isn’t just about gardening, however; the members are engaged in thoughtful activities that blend science with creativity. As teacher Dana Swisher noted, the students’ enthusiasm was palpable right from the beginning. “They have agency and they’re doing something that they see right outside their classrooms,” she said. This sense of ownership fueled their determination to design gardens that consider the natural pathways of students moving through campus. The Benefits of Local Flora These native plant gardens yield numerous ecological benefits. Not only do they support local pollinators like bees and hummingbirds, but they also create habitats for wildlife, contributing to biodiversity in the area. The gardens are designed strategically, with larger plants serving as natural barriers to discourage foot traffic, thereby protecting the delicate ecosystems they have nurtured. In addition to bees and hummingbirds, one of the gardens has also attracted nesting bluebirds. Such interactions highlight how students are actively engaging with and learning from the ecosystem—an experience that underscores the interconnectedness of all living organisms. Curriculum That Connects Kids to Their Environment This year, the club planted over 40 native California species, including buckwheat, California wildrose, and coyote bush, reinforcing the educational aspect. Every plant has its role; as fourth-grader Angie Paredes expressed, the beauty of being part of this initiative lies in both camaraderie and education. “I liked planting like 40 plants, and I think the coyote bush is my favorite,” she shared, showcasing the direct impact of their efforts on young minds. A Sense of Community and Awareness Beyond individual growth, the club fosters a sense of community as the kids work together to raise environmental awareness. Fifth-grader Luke Simon articulated this sentiment succinctly: “I like being with my friends and raising awareness.” This camaraderie aids in solidifying their resolve to protect the Earth, showing that community efforts can lead to significant change. Future Implications for Local Ecosystems As the Ocean Guardian Club continues its work, the implications for the broader Corte Madera area become apparent. This initiative doesn’t just stop with the planting of native species; it marks the beginning of a deeper environmental movement among youth in Marin County. By cultivating a new generation of eco-conscious citizens, we can hope to see a societal shift that values sustainability and proactive ecological decision-making. Action You Can Take Today Local residents can support these budding environmentalists by engaging in their own initiatives, advocating for environmental education in schools, and participating in local garden planting events. Let these students inspire you to make a difference in your backyard or community, contributing to a healthier ecosystem. For those interested in more local news updates about environmental initiatives or community events, stay tuned through your preferred local news channels.