Possible native habitat project in a schoolyard. (FWS photo, May 2007)

Fisheries Biologist Tim Smigielski was invited to attend the Schoolyard Habitat course held in Folsom, Calif. from April 28-May 2, 2008.  Tim has been dedicated to developing public outreach and public use opportunities at the Jordan River National Fish Hatchery (NFH) and within Region 3 since he joined the Service in 2003.  This course was created to provide training in partnering with schools in order to develop projects where schoolyards are transformed into natural habitats useful for learning and outdoor play.  The premise is that by transforming the black top, fences and out of bounds areas into usable and aesthetically pleasing natural habitat, children will be able to connect with nature frequently and the Service is able to assist in rehabilitating natural habitats.  Because the projects are ecologically-sound and are integrated into the schools curriculum, these types of projects fill needs in meeting the Service's mission and priorities.  Smigielski did not only participate in the course, but was part of an evaluation team. "This class was so hands-on and team-oriented that you were constantly learning and discovering.  The most impressive thing about this course is the people that you will meet.  There is so much talent, knowledge, and passion in one class, it is truly inspiring.  On the flight home I just kept thinking, with people like these working for them, what a great future there is for the children and natural resources of this country," Smigielski said. 

For more information about this course contact Dawn Lagrotteria at the National Conservation Training Center in Shepardstown, West Virginia.  If you have questions or require more information about pursuing schoolyard habitats and outdoor classrooms in Region 3, please contact Tim at tim_smigielski@fws.gov or call (231) 584-2461 or go to www.fws.gov/ChesapeakeBay/schoolyard.htm .