The Ponds for Kids Program
Today very few undisturbed ecosystems exist in the world. Unfortunately the ones that are the least affected are those that are the farthest away from us. In an effort to allow schools to show children how a functioning aquatic ecosystem works, NAWGS is coordinating a national campaign to enable schools to construct their own pond ecosystems. By installing a pond system that becomes self-sustaining in a controlled environment, students can observe the ebb and flow of nature happening before their eyes. Besides conducting experiments on water quality they can also observe the animals that colonize the area on their own. Water is the source of all life. A shallow two-foot deep pond, installed properly will allow nature to flourish inside it year round. As the ecosystem evolves so will the educational opportunities. Art students can have their own Monet garden to paint. A schools own Walden pond will become a perfect setting for poetry and creative writing. Horticulture students can have a working classroom to observe their plants growth from season to season and year to year. The Ponds for Kids program has many benefits for the students, the school and the community! The opportunities are many and the ideas are limitless on how a school can incorporate the Ponds for Kids program into their curriculum.
How does Ponds for Kids work?
Interested teachers need to contact North American Water Garden Society (NAWGS) and fill out an application to host a Ponds for Kids program at their school. NAWGS will then find an experienced local contractor who is willing to donate time and equipment to guiding the students in constructing a functioning pond ecosystem.
What does the school need to do?
It is the schools, teachers, and or student’s responsibility to raise the funds to cover the cost of materials used. The expenses invested in constructing a standard 11’X 16’ functioning pond ecosystem usually run around $1500 to $2000. Not only does this cover all of the pumps, plumbing, filters, liners and other gear, but also the rocks, gravel, mulch and topsoil as well. Whether through grants or fundraisers there are many options available to help interested schools pay for the material expenses.
More Information
More information about the Ponds for Kids Program can be found at www.nawgs.com/ponds4kids/. Teachers and students can find out everything that’s involved in coordinating a Ponds for Kids program. The web site contains ideas for fundraising, design considerations, pond care information, codes and regulations, and an overview of the curriculum for participating classes. You'll also find guides for teachers to educate principles and school boards about the program.