ecoEXPLORE comes to Jockey’s Ridge!
Jockey’s Ridge is continuing to expand environmental educational opportunities by now supporting the ecoEXPLORE statewide program. EcoEXPLORE (Experiences Promoting Learning Outdoors for Research and Education) is an “incentive-based citizen science program” for children in grades K-8. The program was developed by staff at The North Carolina Arboretum in Asheville, NC.
EcoEXPLORE’s website notes that the program “combines science exploration with kid-friendly technology to foster a fun learning environment for children, while encouraging them to explore the outdoors and participate in citizen science.” Citizen Science involves the submission of information, most commonly in the form of pictures, to scientists through website submissions. The information will then be used by scientists to better understand North Carolina’s natural world, which could include wildlife and vegetation in your backyard, our parks, and even urban settings.
Jockey’s Ridge State Park is now an official ecoEXPLORE Hotspot, which means that the park will offer programs meeting ecoEXPLORE activity requirements. Ranger staff will develop “Skills programs”, which will allow for registered participants to receive points toward obtaining specific badges. Badge seasons are on a three-month basis, along with bonus badges. This is a great way to get our local youth involved in environmental education and provide them with rewarding outdoor experiences.
Ranger Austin Paul will be assisting with launching the coastal Hub at the Outer Banks Center for Wildlife Education on Saturday Feb. 8, from 10:00 am to 2:00 pm. There will be a variety of activities, bird games, prizes, and additional educational programming. Become a Citizen Scientist and earn badges! For additional program details and registration information visit the ecoEXPLORE website.
