AgdaPkt 2004-09-13 - Laserfiche WebLink

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� 2 � � refuge to cooperate and encourage redesign of the Whipple Sueet entrance to provide improved vehicular approach to the refuge parking lot. The City recognizes the opportunity the refuge provides to explore innovative approaches to education. Urban interface with refuge operations means that we should exploit the teaching role of the refuge for Redwood Ciry and regional education. Currendy, the school system supports Redwood creek restoration and Bair Island restoration is a natural follow-on role for our schools. The City has contacted both the Redwood Ciry School System and the Marine Science Institute to inquire into their willingness to participate in such a plan. Both have agreed to eaplore this new concept in education and refuge management. The Interprerive Center should provide more than just informarion about the refuge; it should be designed from the beginning as a pioneering multi-age teaching center. Class appropriate teaching tools should be incorporated into interactive exhibits on the Island. The Center will be able to educate with curricula on ecological interconnections at multiple levels depending on grade. Refuge managers and the School System should be seamlessly blended to take advantage of each other's disciplines and teach local school children our shared values of envirorunental stewardship. Integration of Bair Island into the community benefits both and creates a synergism that pays generational dividends. The Cit�� recognizes the countless efforts made on behalf of bay ecosystems such as the Bayland.r Eco.ry.rtem Habitat Goal.r. The City not only wishes to join this effort but seeks to expand the circle of stewardship and wise use through conservation principles. The City plan is designed to address specific concerns to the Bair Island habitat while balancing public access and natural resource protection. Existing programs, such as the task force for South Bay Restoration and slough restoration plans can be integrated into school and community projects. The Student and Landowner Education and Watershed Stewardship (SLEWS) program, sponsored by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation and local partners such as Audubon California, has engaged students in restoring wildlife habitat in Yolo and Solano counties By recognizing and utilizing existing programs and incorporating them into the active life of our community we can educate and broaden our citizens to make them aware of the needs and value of the refuge. A mobilized and educated citizenry will provide a willing work force for environmental restoration. Partnering the agencies responsible for restoration of the refuge with the City and community members can develop additional resources and the political will needed to ensure the future of the refuge. 10