Current Activities

Outreach: The purpose of the outreach program is to provide introductory experiences in field based education for teachers and students. The outreach program includes presentations, seasonal field trips, introductory projects, technical support for educators, and expansion of the learning network.

Curriculum development: The CEN partners with local teachers to develop curriculum to facilitate project implementation. Specifically curriculum will focus upon adapting professional methodologies of landscape assessment for instruction at the high school level and generation of lesson plans based upon field projects implemented over the course of the past four years with middle and high school students.

Watershed Assessment, Habitat Enhancement & Restoration: During the 2004-5 school year the CEN will work with students, teachers, agency staff, and private citizens to assess watershed function, enhance habitat values and water quality at several project sites including the Howard Buford Recreation Area, Churchill High School , McCornack Elementary School , Sheldon High School , Creswell High School, and the Desmond Family Farm.

Mitigation Bank Operation: This year the CEN will continue to develop its mitigation bank program. We will initiate a pilot project, secure seed money to support start up of operations, and advance the formal authorization process with regulatory agencies.

Capacity building: This year CEN will implement fundraising strategies and prepare proposals to generate monies to support expenses in the coming years.

Network: Since April 2004 the CEN has collaborated with public and private interests to establish the Emerald Biodiversity Council. The council seeks to promote awareness and appreciation for the rich natural history of the southern Willamette Valley. At the invitation of the Mayor of Creswell, the CEN will serve on the City of Creswell Parks and Open Space committee. The charge of this committee is to identify recommendations for the future development and acquisition of parks and recreation areas/facilities and open space.