From Salmonberry to Sagebrush: Exploring Oregon’s Native Plants

From Salmonberry to Sagebrush: Exploring Oregon’s Native Plants

© 2011 Institute for Applied Ecology.  Written and compiled by Jennie Cramer and Jody Einerson.

“Botany Bouquet, The Secret Life of Flowers, and Survival Quest: A Pollinator Game,” are just a few of the interactive lessons in the Institute for Applied Ecology’s new high school ecoregional curriculum.  The goal of the curriculum is to introduce students to the wondrous biodiversity of flora, and the connections between plants and their ecosystems.  It is designed specifically for Oregon’s native plants and can be adapted to different ecoregions within the state.

The curriculum’s lessons encourage students to study what is outside their door and to gain skills to be informed and active citizens in local natural area issues and decision in their future.  All lessons start with a “Teacher Page,” which gives background information and essential skills.  “Student pages,” assist participants in developing their literacy proficiency and becoming active in service-learning and community projects.  Oregon Education Standards correlated to the lessons, recommended botanical field guides for Oregon Ecoregions, schoolyard plant species lists and Oregon ethnobotanical plants and their uses, are found in the appendices.

Jody Einerson, one of the writers of the curriculum, has worked closely with teachers and an advisory council in developing the curriculum.  “We are now holding free workshops to introduce educators and interested parties to the lessons and have them actually conduct some of the inquiry-based segments,” stated Mrs. Einerson.  “We appreciate funding from USDA Bureau of Land Management, and National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, in making this exciting curriculum possible.” Benton County Soil and Water Conservation District has provided funding most recently for reprints of the curriculum.