A three-dimensional model of a school site helps educators visualize a schoolyard project, assess the site, try out design ideas, and generate enthusiasm among school staff, students, and the public. Presents instructions for creating a model that include gathering data (determining current characteristics, taking biodiversity inventories, and…

Engaging, attractive schoolyard ponds provide habitat for wildlife and hold great educational promise. Reviews water safety and liability issues including mud, stagnant pond water that serves as mosquito breeding grounds, and drowning. Offers ideas for creatively addressing those issues through site planning, shallow water depth, signage and…

Describes advantages that high schools have in schoolyard greening projects (such as budgets and student maturity), how to involve multiple departments, use of extra-curricular opportunities, and how to sustain student interest. (PVD)

Building a pond in a schoolyard is a rewarding way to help boost local populations of amphibians, to increase the natural value of school grounds, and to serve as a locale for observing the life cycles of plants, invertebrates, and amphibians. This article outlines important considerations in designing and building a pond from siting through…

Outlines the necessary steps for designing a school wetland which include site assessment, estimating water volume, analyzing soil permeability, site design, and implementation. (PVD)