September 10, 2004

LIFE Goes On

The LIFE Program at the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve (ANERR) begins pilot implementation later this month with the first of four, day-long, environmental science, field experiences. Getting to this point in the project has taken many months of planning, coordination and groundwork. I want to thank all those people who have given their time and support to build a lasting contribution to science education in the region. This LIFE Update is designed to keep partners, supporters and other interested parties informed as we move forward.

The Web of LIFE

Keep up with the LIFE Program by going online (http://www.dep.state.fl.us/secretary/ed/default.htm). Click on LIFE - ANERR (Franklin County) link to check the schedule of field experiences, find relevant professional development opportunities or find important contact information.

LIFE $upport

• The LIFE Program recently received financial support from the Oceans Initiative for implementation of the LIFE – ANERR Program as well as for planning and development of the LIFE – GTM Program. For more on the Oceans Initiative, go to http://www.dep.state.fl.us/secretary/news/2004/ocean/initiative.htm. These funds will be used primarily for equipment, professional development, and staff support.
• The LIFE Program also received funding support from the St. Joe Community Foundation to cover the cost of substitute teachers and transportation for the field experiences (a total of 12 field days to bring every 7th grade student in Franklin County Schools to the program’s four field sites throughout the school year).

LIFE Events (September)

• 14 September (Tuesday, 2:30 pm): Apalachicola Teachers Meeting to review field labs and recommended pre- and post-field activities.
• 24 September (Friday, 2:00 – 6:30 pm): National Estuaries Day will be celebrated at the Apalachicola National Estuarine Research Reserve on September 24th (http://estuaries.gov/calendar092404.html). Student volunteers are invited to join the LIFE/World Water Monitoring Exhibit. Interested students can contact Greg Ira at Greg.Ira@dep.state.fl.us or (850) 245-2132 for more information.