Outreach activities in Plant Sciences at the University of Wisconsin – Madison:
Boy Scouts – Plant Science Merit Badge
The workshop is held in conjunction with the Plant Sciences Graduate Student Council (PSGSC). Scouts attending the workshop take part in lectures, hands-on experiments, and tours of the D.C. Smith Greenhouse and the Allen Centennial Gardens. Said one parent who attended the workshop, “My son commented on how much they learned and came home in very good spirits after a long day. We’ve been to many different merit badge workshops…[This] was one of the best run and highest-quality workshops we’ve seen.”
What’s Eating My Plants
Founded in 2010 by Plant Pathology graduate students at UW-Madison, What’s Eating My Plants? is a student organization dedicated to bridging the gap between the University and the greater Madison community. We visit Family Science Nights at schools, community centers, and Saturday Science at the WID throughout the year. At our Exploration Stations, children and parents can learn about microbes that make plants sick! (they won’t make you sick) Microscopes, coloring, plant samples, and mini-games are just some of the things you can explore at these stations. Our mission is to foster the Wisconsin Idea by increasing scientific agency and accessibility through outreach of our favorite science, plant pathology! You can also find us leading classroom-style activities at Latino Youth Summit, Centro Hispano, Expanding Your Horizons, and more!
No experience necessary to volunteer with us! All undergraduates and graduate students are welcome. Join our listserve to get updates on meetings and events by emailing join-wemp@lists.wisc.edu!
Contact Email: whatseatingmyplants@gmail.com
Darwin Day
Every year, the Crow Institute for the Study of Evolution at UW Madison hosts a series of events to mark the birthday of Charles Darwin. In February, children and their families are invited to experience Tree of Life Exploration Stations at the Discovery Building on the UW campus