2014 Partnership Highlights
Researchers Showcase Science-At-Work with School-Aged Children
Demystifying research science is necessary to engage teachers and students, and ultimately to inspire a new generation of young scientists. The Southern Research Station (SRS) is expanding its partnership with the North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences' Nature Research Center (NRC) in Raleigh, NC. The SRS liaison to the museum is the Eastern Threat Center's communication director, who facilitates unique opportunities for SRS researchers to integrate forest science into the museum’s programming and activity schedules – including Bugfest, the largest insect-themed festival in the nation and upcoming science communications activities hosted by the museum.
The partnership gives the Station ground floor access to 21st century technological resources, and integrates scientific exploration to expose and engage more than one million multicultural students to the wonders of forest science. SRS scientists will have several platforms available – including science cafés, distant learning projects, special forestry themes, and the immersive, three-story multimedia Daily Planet hub – to share the research behind contemporary issues and emphasize how forests address societal concerns.
SRS and NRC scientific experts jointly unfold cutting-edge research and technology to bright young minds eager to absorb science in action. And the fun extends beyond the museum’s walls! Through special live video feeds and hands-on activities, the wonders of forest science will be potentially broadcast into schools, libraries, senior citizen centers, hospitals, and other community organizations, stimulating an interest in forests and exciting children and adults alike.
External Partners/Collaborators: North Carolina Museum of Natural Sciences
Pictured: A child learns about the southern pine beetle at BugFest. Photo by Perdita Spriggs, USDA Forest Service.
