Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy: Ecosystem Investigator (2017-Present)

From 2017-2018 CEAC conducted a program evaluation of the Pittsburgh Parks Conservancy Ecosystem Investigators (ESI) program. ESI is a hands-on experience for 7^th and 8^th grade students to study forest and stream ecosystems and the services they provide. The program is led by Frick Environmental Center (FEC) staff and includes presentations, hands-on activities, and demonstrations. The program gives students valuable experience both using tools and sampling methods used by scientists, and collecting data to gain a deeper understanding of healthy ecosystems, their benefits, and human impact, both positive and negative.