Home / Environment / Students Transform San Diego with Native Gardens
Students Transform San Diego with Native Gardens
7 Sep
Summary
- Nearly 350 students created or restored 25,000 sq ft of habitat.
- 39 native gardens established on school grounds and community spaces.
- Program provides stipends up to $2,000 for student participation.
Since its launch in spring 2022, the San Diego Zoo Wildlife Alliance's Native Biodiversity Corps has empowered nearly 350 high school students to create or restore almost 25,000 square feet of native habitat. These efforts have resulted in 39 distinct gardens established on school grounds and within community areas throughout San Diego County.
The program immerses students in hands-on conservation, guiding them from initial design and plant selection to the ongoing maintenance of native wildlife gardens. Participants gain practical experience by working alongside conservation professionals, applying ecological concepts to real-world projects.
Beyond individual gardens, the initiative has influenced school landscaping policies, increasing the approved native plant species from four to nearly 30 within the San Diego Unified School District. This expansion signifies a broader commitment to integrating native vegetation across educational environments.
Students involved in the Native Biodiversity Corps not only develop critical conservation skills but also explore potential career paths in wildlife, habitat restoration, and environmental education. The program offers financial recognition, with eligible students potentially receiving stipends of up to $2,000 for their commitment and work.
