Welcome to the Utah Society for Environmental Education (USEE) E-Newsletter! This publication exists to connect educators and our community with valuable news, information, and opportunities!Whether you are aneducator,business owner, agency personnel, or a concerned citizen…we hope that you will find something useful and interesting in eachmonth’s publication!
In This Issue:
USEE News
Community Corner
Environmental Education News
Educator’s Corner
USEE News
Upcoming Events
4th Grade Wasatch Front Watershed Education Workshop
February 28, 
2007 ~ Red Butte Garden, SLC, UT (9:00-4:00pm)
Take part in this FREE educator workshop to learn about your local watershed, obtain education materials, and earn re-licensure points! The primary goals of this program are to create awareness of where Salt Lake Valley obtains its drinking water, change behavior to protect our drinking water, utilize place-based education activities within the Wasatch Front, and demonstrate their tie to the USOE Core Curriculum. For more information or to register, contact Staci Strenkert at (801) 328-1549 or staci@usee.org.
Join a Great Basin Earth Institute Discussion Circle ~ Introductory Session
March 7, 2007 SLC, UT (in the Tracy Aviary’s Chase Mill – Meet at the Front Gate)
How many days until the moon is full? Does advertisement impact children? Can you find balance in your life? Does your career equal your identity? What's your carbon footprint? How will others remember your life?
Sparked an Interest? Then come learn more at the next introductory session. The Great Basin Earth Institute (GBEI) offers 7 different courses which explore ideas for creating a healthy lifestyle & community.
Discussion courses include:
For more information regarding GBEI, contact Staci Strenkert at staci@usee.org, call (801) 328-1549, or visit http://www.usee.org/services/GBEI/home.htm.
- Global Warming: Changing CO2urse
- Voluntary Simplicity
- Choices for Sustainable Living
- Discovering a Sense of Place
- Exploring Deep Ecology
- Globalization and Its Critics
- Healthy Children ~ Healthy Planet
Project Learning Tree Secondary Educator Workshop
March 23, 2007 ~ Clearfield High School (11:30 – 3:30pm)
Join us for an exciting workshop featuring two Project Learning Tree secondary modules: Municipal Solid Waste and Places We Live. For more information or to register, contact Staci Strenkert at (801) 328-1549 or staci@usee.org
News
Kudos to Our Utah EE Certification Recipients!
We’d like to congratulate Kerry Case, Helen Hicks, and Mark Larese-Casanova who were recently certified through the Utah Environmental Education Certification Program! If you’re interested in learning more about how to become a certified environmental educator, visit http://www.usee.org/capacity/certification.html or call Staci Strenkert at (801) 328-1549.
Here’s the buzz…
USEE is in need of a new phone system! If you have phones or a phone system that you would be willing to donate to our office, please contact info@usee.org or call (801) 328-1549.
And what about cell phones..? Do you have old cell phones collecting dust around your house or garage? Well, you can mail or drop off any old cell phones to our office to be recycled through a program called DonationsInk http://www.donationsink.com/ where all proceeds go toward funding programs of USEE.
Special Thanks
Special Thanks go out to the following organizations for their contributions toward our print and online publications, as well as other communication channels:
- Green Earth Development
- Canyons Structural Consulting
Community Corner
Upcoming Events
Free Flight Bird Shows ~ Tracy Aviary
Friday, Saturdays and Sundays (11:00am & 1:00pm)
Join the spring migration at Tracy Aviary with 350 birds and over 150 different species, not to mention all the wild birds coming to visit! Experience one of four different intimate Bird Show programs indoors at the Aviary’s Chase Mill. After the show, tour the Mill – Utah’s oldest standing industrial building, and enjoy all the “earth friendly” products used in its renovation.
23rd Annual Jefferson B. Fordham Debate ~ Solving Global Warming: Should We Regulate?
February 20, 2007~ University of UT (5:30pm Reception; 6:00pm Debate)
This year’s debate will address the following resolution: “The federal government should immediately develop and implement a program under the Clean Air Act to regulate emissions of greenhouse gases.” The College of Law will be joined by three participants to debate how best to respond to climate change and how greenhouse gases would most effectively be regulated. This event is free and open to the public. For questions, call (801) 581-7356.
Snowshoe Under the Stars ~ Swaner Nature Preserve & Salt Lake Astronomical Society
February 23, 2007~ Park City, UT
The evening will begin with a snowshoe trip on the Preserve, including discussions of the Preserve’s nocturnal wildlife. This will be followed by the unique opportunity to view the waxing gibbous Moon with telescopes provided by the SLAS as well as snacks and hot drinks served around a fire. Space is limited, so call Swaner Nature Preserve at (435) 649-1767 or email erin@swanernature.org to reserve your spot.
The Soul of Soil
March 10, 2007 ~ Grateful Tomato Garden, SLC, UT (10:00-12:00pm)
Learn the ‘Ins & Outs’ about the importance of healthy soil with USU-Extension specialist Maggie Wolf. This free workshop will teach you how to sustain soil-life, check plant pests, and invigorate your garden. To reserve a space, call (801) 359-2658 or visit www.wasatchgardens.org for more information.
Landscaping For Water Conservation
March 22, Red Butte Garden (12:00-1:30pm)
Did you know that our semi-arid climate only receives about 13 inches of precipitation annually and up to 70% of it is used in our landscapes! Join Michelle Cook with Intermountain Native Plant Growers Association and learn how to conserve water and maintain an attractive yard by gardening wisely. Visit www.redbuttegarden.org for details and a list of other upcoming events and workshops.
Community News
An Emerging Culture of Sustainability in the National Park Service
Sustainability is the management of the Earth’s resources so they are passed on to future generations of all life in a healthy and abundant manner. During the past 10 years, Zion has emerged as a leader in the National Park Service in this fledgling cultural shift. Furthermore, Zion is the first national park to include several pages addressing sustainability on its website www.nps.gov/zion including Green Park – Green Planet, History and Culture, and Plan Your Visit. The Kids section will soon have many resources for parents and teachers, so stay tuned!
Did You Know..?
Your energy bill is one bill that you CAN control. In 2005, the average household spent almost $1,900 on home energy bills. You can save 10% - 50% each year by making smart energy choices! (Source: www.EnergyHog.org)
How Can You Be a More Efficient Energy Consumer..?
- In the winter, turn your thermostats down to 68 degrees or below. Reduce the setting to 55 degrees before going to sleep or when leaving for the day. (For each 1 degree you turn down the thermostat in the winter, you'll save up to 5% on your heating costs.)
- Turn off non-essential lights and appliances. The electricity generated by fossil fuels for a single home puts more carbon dioxide into the air than two average cars!
- Avoid running large appliances such as washers, dryers, and electric ovens during peak energy demand hours from 5:00-9:00am and 4:00-7:00pm.
- Close shades and blinds at night to reduce the amount of heat lost through windows. This also applies during the day for warm climates.
- Buy Energy Star appliances, products, and lights. (http://www.energystar.gov/)
(Source: Earth 911- http://www.earth911.org)
Environmental Education News & Events
Local
Salt Lake Sustainable Building Conference
February 21, 2007 ~ SLC, UT @ the Salt Palace Convention Center
Enjoy a full-day of keynote speakers, presentations, panels, and case-studies from local and national leaders on high performance building and the way sustainable practices are transforming the design and operation of modern facilities. Contact Vicki Bennett (801) 535-6540 for more information.
2007 Harvesting Energy Summit: Rural Prosperity through Renewable Energy
February 26-28, 2007 ~ Salt Lake City, UT
An exciting three-day gathering of rural leaders and champions of renewable energy, this year’s conference promises to be a potent opportunity for building networks, exchanging information, sharing news of progress, and forging a stronger future together. For more information, visit http://www.harvestenergy.org/ihen/index.html or email summit@workinglandscapes.com.
Inspiring Our Sense of Wonder - 7th Annual Bioregional Outdoor Education
March 2-4, 2007 ~ College of Eastern Utah, Blanding, Utah
The conference will entail a variety of workshops (over 30 to choose from), networking opportunities including a Share fair, featured presenter Sara Ransom on The Life of Rachel Carson, and much more! Visit www.boep.org for more detailed information.
Take the Natural Challenge ~ Utah Envirothon
May 11-12, 2007 ~ Salt Lake Valley Landfill, UT
The tenth annual Utah Envirothon current issue for 2007 is Alternative/Renewable Energy. This natural resource competition for high school students will test teams of students on their knowledge of the state’s natural resources – soils, aquatics, forestry, wildlife and Alternative/ Renewable Energy. For details, visit www.utahenvirothon.org
REGIONAL
Wallace Stegner Center 12th Annual Symposium
March 2- 3, 2007 University of Utah S.J. Quinney College of Law
The Wallace Stegner Center’s 12th annual symposium will explore issues of Colorado River management, focusing on the seven-state Colorado River Compact and other aspects of the “Law of the River,” the complex set of laws, treaties, cases, regulations, and other documents that govern use and management of the Colorado River. For more information, visit http://www.law.utah.edu/_FILES/stegner/brochures/symposia_2007.pdf.
Binational Center Inauguration & GEH Workshop ~ Arizona
March 12-14, 2007 ~ Tucson, Arizona
Celebrate the inauguration of the newly established U.S.-Mexico Binational Center for Environmental Sciences and Toxicology at The University of Arizona. This ceremony will be followed by a two-day Global Environmental Health (GEH) workshop addressing international collaborations and investigations within environmental toxicology and engineering, as well as the interdisciplinary field of environmental science. For details, visit http://www-apps.niehs.nih.gov/sbrp/3/global/
NATIONAL
EcoRes Forum
April 2007
Take advantage of this new series of free online e-conferences focusing on the ethical, political, and socio-cultural aspects of climate change. Participants will shift their focus to the future while learning various approaches for moving forward on the issue of climate change. For more information, visit http://www.eco-res.org.
Sign up for National Environmental Education (EE) Week!
April 15-22, 2007
Now in its third year, EE Week seeks to enhance the educational impact of Earth Day and create a full week of environmental education preparation, learning, and activities. Get involved and learn how to host a hike, coordinate a litter pick-up, or just download some classroom lesson plans by visiting http://www.eeweek.org today!
2007 NAAEE Annual Conference and Research Symposium
November 14-17, 2007 ~ Virginia Beach, VA
NAAEE will be holding its annual conference “Explore New Horizons for Environmental Education,” November 14-17, 2007 in Virginia Beach. For further details, visit www.naaee.org.
Educator’s Corner
Professional Development/ Training Opportunities
Conservation Across Boundaries “Enhancing Wildlife Conservation through Education
Registration Deadline: February 26, 2007
All classroom science teachers are invited to take part in this amazing opportunity to learn how to incorporate natural resource conservation in the classroom. This hands-on summer field course focuses on topics related to ecology, habitats, and management issues regarding plants and animals. Visit http://www.boone-crockett.org/ for details.
Leadership Development in Natural Resources: Strategic Planning & Implementation
March 19-18, 2007
This 9-week online course will be offered this spring through the University of Wisconsin – Stevens Point. It is designed to assist environmental educators and natural resource professionals in learning and applying key elements of successful strategic planning. To learn more, please visit www.eetap.org and click on “Online EE Courses.” To register, contact Angela Lemar at (715) 346-3854 (Angela.Lemar@uwsp.edu).
NOLS Master Educator Course
April 23-27, 2007 ~ Zion National Park, UT
Embark on a 5-day backpacking trip through deep sandstone canyons and striking rock towers and mesas. This course is designed for people who actively teach others outdoor skills or provide recreation information to the public and emphasizes the following three components: low-impact camping skills; wildland ethics; and outdoor teaching techniques. Scholarship money is available. Visit http://www.lnt.org/training/index.html for details.
Teacher Resources
Promise of Place Website
Interested in learning more about place-based education (PBE)? How can you immerse your students in local heritage, cultures, landscapes, opportunities and experiences, while teaching them about language arts, mathematics, social studies, science and other subjects across the curriculum? Check out the Promise of Place website, http://www.promiseofplace.org/, which offers program ideas, case studies, research, links, and other resources to get you started!
Environmental Justice Resource Center
The Environmental Justice Resource Center at Clark Atlanta University offers books, curriculum guides, and reports on environmental and economic justice, urban land-use planning, transportation equity, suburban sprawl, smart growth, and community health. Visit http://www.ejrc.cau.edu/ to find out more! (Source: YES! Magazine Enewsletter)
Association of School Business Officials (ASBO) Environmental Resource Center
Not only does ASBO provides programs and services to promote high educational standards, but it also provides information and resources concerning Indoor Air Quality (IAQ) programs, practitioners, materials, government and association links, and other facilities resources. Visit their website at http://asbointl.org/Recognition/index.asp?bid=7987.
Grants & Awards
Igniting Creative Energy Challenge (ICE)
Deadline: February 17, 2007
This National Energy Foundation (NEF) competition for K-12 educators is designed to encourage students to learn more about energy conservation and the environment. Student entries must reflect the theme "Igniting Creative Energy" and demonstrate an understanding of what an individual, family, or group can do to make a difference in their home or community. Additional awards and prizes for Utah teachers and students (in Granite and Murray School Districts) that participate are available. Visit http://www.ignitingcreativeenergy.org/ for details.
Five Star Restoration Grants
Deadline: March 9, 2007
The Five Star Restoration Program works to provide environmental education through projects that restore stream banks and wetlands. Challenge grants, technical support, and opportunities for information exchange to enable community-based restoration projects are available. Visit http://www.epa.gov/owow/wetlands/restore/5star/02factsheet.html for details.
Red, White, & Green Climate Change Grant
Deadline: March 9, 2007
Youth and/or organizations that engage youth between the ages of 15-25 are encouraged to apply for grants of up to $500. Applicants are expected to develop and implement a service-learning project about climate change that engages their community, policy-makers, and candidates running for election in 2007 and 2008. For more information, visit http://redwhiteandgreen.org/.
EE Jobs
Watershed Communications Specialist ~ Salt Lake County Engineering Division
The Salt Lake County Engineering Division is seeking a part-time communications intern to assist in the development of our Water Quality Stewardship Plan (WaQSP). It’s a great work environment and an excellent opportunity to be involved in progressive planning in Salt Lake County. Visit http://www.usee.org/eeinfo/jobs.html for details.
Recycling Coordinator 23 ~ Salt Lake Co. Government, Div. of Solid Waste Management
Please visit http://www.personnel.slco.org/pdf/07047.pdf for details.
For a list of additional environmental education job/internship opportunities visit USEE’s EE Jobs page: http://usee.org/eeinfo/jobs.html.