Saving the Karner Blue: Pine Bush Project

In 1995 the Pine Bush Project began at Farnsworth Middle School.  The program was designed to empower children and allow them to make a real difference in the world around them.  It started with one seventh grade teacher and 100 students.  The Pine Bush Project now involves over 1,000 students and several schools.

          As part of the program, students have become active in authentic scientific research.  In collaboration with the Albany Pine Bush Preserve Commission, students conduct long-term studies in ecological restoration.  Native gardens at the school provide seeds and plants that are returned to the Pine Bush.  Sixth grade students conducted research on germination and growth of the blue lupine.  Seventh grade students have built eight large exclosures to protect native lupine, one large exclosure to protect the pitch pine seedlings they planted, and have girdled over 40,000 invasive aspen trees.  The effect of their work and the knowledge it generates has made a difference in preserving the Pine Bush.

Web Design  and picture done by Jess of Web Page Design Club
05/22/2006