After introductions to the concepts of biodiversity and stewardship on global and local levels, students take their first field trip. They learn about the area’s natural history and current management challenges. They learn about native and alien species, including their cultural uses, and they learn and follow proper techniques for collecting plant material for propagation. Back at school, they experiment with various propagation techniques to grow native plants.

Module 2:  

Mapping and Monitoring

Students learn basic mapping concepts, including how to read topographic maps and how GPS (Global Positioning Systems) and GIS (Geographic Information Systems) are used in conservation. They also learn various techniques to monitor plants and animals. During the field trip, they practice these techniques on the plot that they adopt for the duration of the program. Data will be collected for analysis back in the classroom.

Students learn the impact that invasive alien species have on native ecosystems, and, in particular, on Hawaii’s natural communities. They also learn how they can help protect sensitive habitats from the spread of these species. Finally, they devise and implement a strategy for the removal of alien species in their plot.

Students study aspects of different natural community types. They learn about various techniques used in restoration and begin the restoration process of their plot to a natural native community by out-planting native plants and developing strategies to enhance their chances of survival. They also re-monitor their plots and modify their maps to reflect the changes made. Finally, they compile the information they learned throughout Project Stewardship and understand how the modules fit together.

As part of the curriculum, students are responsible for producing final projects that reinforce the concepts learned during Project Stewardship and share insights with other students about stewardship at their field site.

    Project Stewardship concludes with the hoike, a celebratory wrap-up, during which students make class and final project presentations. The goal of the hoike is to celebrate accomplishments of all students involved and to share information among schools. This event brings together all participating students, teachers, volunteers, resource managers and staff. Students are also informed on the various opportunities available to them should they wish to pursue interests sparked by Project Stewardship.