Vision

Native pollinators such as bees, butterflies, flies, and beetles play a crucial role in maintaining healthy ecosystems and food production systems. In recent years, their populations have been declining due to habitat loss, pesticide use, and climate change. Creating pollinator-friendly gardens with native plants helps reverse this trend by providing essential habitats and food sources. Through this project, students learned how local actions, like planting a wildflower garden, can contribute to global ecological health.
Our project focused on designing and constructing a raised garden box to support native pollinator populations by planting a selection of wildflower seeds indigenous to our region. This hands-on, student-led initiative combined environmental learning with practical skills, empowering students to engage directly with sustainability and biodiversity in our local ecosystem.

Action

Project Objectives
1. Design and construct a raised garden box using sustainable materials.
2. Fill the box with nutrient-rich soil suitable for native plant growth.
3. Plant a variety of native wildflower seeds to attract and support pollinators.
4. Educate students about the importance of pollinators and biodiversity.
5. Foster long-term stewardship and environmental responsibility.

Activities Completed

Design Phase
Students researched garden box designs, focusing on sustainability, accessibility, and appropriate size for the selected location. Using feedback and peer collaboration, they created detailed sketches and material lists, integrating science and math concepts.

Construction Phase
Using sustainably sourced wood and tools available at the school, students constructed the raised garden box over a three-week period. They measured, cut, assembled, and reinforced the structure, applying real-world problem-solving and teamwork.

Soil Preparation
Once the box was assembled and placed in a sunlit location in the roof top garden of the school. Students filled it with a blend of compost-enriched topsoil to ensure optimal growing conditions for wildflowers.

Planting Phase
Students sowed a variety of native wildflower seeds known to attract local pollinators such as monarch butterflies, mason bees, and hoverflies. Species included Black-eyed Susan (Rudbeckia hirta), Wild Bergamot (Monarda fistulosa), and Butterfly Milkweed (Asclepias tuberosa), and more.

Observation and Stewardship
Students water, weed, and observe the box daily. They are documenting plant growth and pollinator activity, with plans to create an educational display for the school community in the fall.

Reflection & Celebration

Environmental Literacy: Students gained an understanding of pollinator ecology and the importance of native plants.

STEM Skills: Students applied math and science skills in designing, measuring, constructing, and planting.

Collaboration & Leadership: The project fostered teamwork, project planning, and leadership through student-led roles.

Stewardship: Participants developed a sense of responsibility for the natural environment through direct involvement.