MEEC Pre-conference workshops

Wednesday, July 20

DISCOVER A WATERSHED:  THE MISSOURI WORKSHOP
Project WET  10:00AM - 4:30PM

 
MONARCHS FOR CLASSROOMS AND NATURE CENTERS

10 AM – 4:30 PM

In this workshop, we will cover several materials and programs that can be used in classrooms or nature centers that will help engage participants in the amazing biology of the monarch butterfly.

Among the resources that will be covered are Monarchs in the Classroom curriculum materials, Monarch Larvae Monitoring Project citizen science materials, Monarch Watch tagging information, and basic monarch biology and rearing techniques.

Why monarchs? Monarchs are familiar, well-loved insects that provide Participants and educators with a comfortable, non-threatening experience with living organisms. Their easily-observed life cycle brings diverse and exciting science concepts to life, and their large size makes it easy for most to handle all life stages. Working with living organisms in the classroom engages students and allows them to practice observation, measuring, hypothesis-making and evaluating skills. Using monarchs is especially appealing because it captures the interest and attention of all, not just those with an "aptitude for science."

JOURNEYS WITH LEWIS AND CLARK!
 1:00 – 4:30

The Corps of Discover traveled from 1803 to 1806.  This session commemorates the 200-year anniversary of the expedition.  Come travel the waterways, gather plant samples, observe new animals, meet the crew & tribes, listen to the adventures and dance a jig!  History, math, English, biology and physical education are just a few of the subjects that come alive in the journeys with Lewis and Clark.  Learn from the past through drama, journals, sign language and music… consider our natural and cultural history as we take wing for tomorrow!  Gather ideas to bring the story alive and  “proceed on” toward new horizons.

ALTERNATIVE ENERGY COMES FULL CIRCLE

1:00-4:30 

Beginning with the history of wind machines, this workshop will take you through “the winds of change” in energy production and conservation over the years and demonstrate new technologies for today and the future.  Learn some easy methods to control energy costs and help reduce the environmental degradation associated with energy consumption.  John will also provide an overview of the Photovoltaics (PV) industry, explaining the PV technology and applications, and discussing product attributes and solutions for overcoming barriers to PV use.  In a hands-on workshop segment, participants learn how to build and cook with a solar oven made out of recycled cardboard. Tour a Solar/Wind power Motor home that features a 700 amp hour battery bank, insulating curtains, LED lighting, Solar Water Heater and many energy efficient appliances. After this workshop, you will be ready to start a solar project of your own!

John R. Root is Energy Services Advisor for Muscatine Power and Water.  His responsibilities include teaching energy efficiency and renewable energy in schools and developing green energy programs.  For 24 years Mr. Root has owned and operated The Rootcellar, a Renewable Energy Company, which provides consulting, sales and service for Wind, Solar and Alternative Transportation. 

COST $25, includes materials.
Limit of 25 participants.

(IOWA educators (formal and non-formal) may apply for a REAP-CEP scholarship to fund attendance at this conference.  Deadline June 10th.  See Iowa Scholarships  or call Carol:  641-422-4319)

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For more information contact Carol Schutte, 641-422-4319 or schutcar@niacc.edu
The Midwest Environmental Education Conference 2005
North Iowa Area Community College
500 College Drive, Mason City, IA 50401