On the 29th, we undertook a prescribed burn in one of Washington Park's nature areas. This activity mimics the process of regeneration that would take place after wildfires in the past. New growth quickly emerges from the scorched remains because the roots of many native plants extend deep into the ground.
Later, on the 31st, the first Teen Ecological Adventure of the year took place. Marjorie Hess brought students from the Gary Comer Youth Center to Washington Park. A local father and daughter joined the activity so that she could complete her Chicago Public Schools service learning hours.The burn site from the 29th was used as a conservation training ground for the teens. They learned all about prescribed burns, how to spread seeds and encourage plant growth, and how to identify common trees in the park. The tree identification activity was led by Becky Schillo.
The students from the Gary Comer Youth Center will be on a yearlong Teen Ecological Adventure in Washington Park. Trash cleanup, plant tending and naturalist training are just a few of the regular activities in which Ecological Adventurers will participate.
