Rice Natural History Project

This project is the grouping of several ideas to increase the awareness and appreciation of the Rice Community of its natural surroundings through simple, accessible education. It is currently being led by James Douglas (douglass@rice.edu) and myself (envintrn@rice.edu), with help from Paul Harcombe and Greg Mikkelson (and his students).

***NEW***
See the poster display for Rice's Species Awareness Month in the RMC across from the Coffee House! Created by James Douglas, this poster displays many of the animal species found on campus along with some of their natural history. Find the name of that bird you always wondered about and see what else calls this campus home. Click on the picture for a more detailed version.

Different Ideas Include:
*  The Naturalist's Guide to Rice:  This would be a small booklet describing the flora, fauna, and ecology of Rice's unique setting.

*  Rice Naturalist's Webpage:  This would be an interactive version of the Naturalists' Guide, with question submission and sighting submission.

*  Campus Nature Trails:  This would be an interpretive nature trail in one of the more secluded areas of campus that would teach those walking along it about the local flora, fauna, and ecology.  This could be coupled with the Naturalist's Guide for a self-guided trail.

*  Natural History Kiosks:  These would be small displays in the main part of campus that would teach passers-by about the local flora, fauna, and ecology.

*  The Campus Student Naturalist Position:  Expanding out of a suggestion from nature writer Barry Lopez, this could be a one year position that a student could apply for, and would be responsible for maintaining the Natural History Program, leading nature hikes and other education programs for students and visitors, and expanding the knowledge of Rice's natural history.  This could also include college representatives at each residential college.

*  Natural History Awareness Month:  This would be a short-term attempt to make the Rice Community more aware of Rice's natural history, with displays in the RMC and colleges, and maybe a speaker, forum, or discussion.

Also see the geology department's alternative tour of Rice's buildings at Rice Rocks.

Does this give you an idea? Then go to the Idea Bank and make it known.

Got questions? You can reach me at envintrn@rice.edu.

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Accessed times since 9-2-99