School Programs

During the last few years I have assisted environmental preserves by photographing wildlife in their natural habitat and developing programs to educate residents about our changing environment. The images are an amazing portrayal of many species. For example many of us can remember when there were not any wild turkeys in our neighborhoods. Today turkeys are found throughout the northeast. This program addresses a variety of concepts such as why some species have returned and others have diminished, as well as why these changes have occurred. I can assure you that both you and your students will be amazed by the photography and learn something new about the natural environment which surrounds you.

By examining Native American tools that were used in villages prior to 1500 your students become aware of the skills they would have had to master at their age and how these activities influenced their family relationship. Over 100 original Native American artifacts and reconstructed tools assist students in developing a better understanding of Stone Age technologies and survival skills. Demonstrations include atlatl spear throwing, flint knapping, drilling and bow-drill fire starting. To expand my knowledge of this subject I have lived with similar cultures in East Africa and South America where many of these skills are still used. The students participate in solving various problems Native Americans encountered on a daily basis. The artifacts and skills also reflect our ancient ancestors’ life-style who, at one time, used the same Stone Age technologies. The Native American as an environmentalist is also discussed. The program lasts an hour and a half.

During the summer of 1989 I worked as a consultant for various environmental groups on the Exxon Valdez Alaskan oil spill. One of my assignments was to photograph various aspects of the cleanup effort, which enabled me to travel extensively throughout the impacted area. The program begins with an introduction to the beauty and delicate balance of nature that exists in Prince William Sound. Topics include the relationship between the geography, climate and wildlife of the region. Secondly, the oil spill is discussed in relation to its environmental impact on the region. Topics include safety violations at the oil terminal, oiled beaches and wildlife and cleanup efforts. Following the slide presentation students can examine oiled rocks from Prince William Sound.This program provides students with an excellent in depth study of a major environmental disaster that reflects the global environmental crisis we currently face.

For decades scholars have studied the Nasca Lines in southern Peru, which consist of geometric shapes and animal figures formed by ancient cultures who etched these designs into the desert floor more than 1,500 years ago. Although several theories have been purposed regarding the function of the Nasca Lines, until now, no one has been able to support their hypothesis scientifically. While searching for water sources for the city of Nasca I discovered a correlation exists between the geology, hydrology and Nasca Lines. As I mapped the geological faults and aquifers in the region I realized the geometric shapes charted their course. Recognizing that these shapes functioned as hieroglyphs I eventually determined what some of the shapes indicated. This enabled me to use the Nasca Lines to locate subterranean water sources for the community. Today a team of scientists is working with me to unlock the mysteries of the Nasca Lines.

Journey throughout East Africa as we explore life-styles from modern cities to villages and nomadic tribes. This presentation brings students into the homes of East Africans whose life-styles are representative of other regions of Africa, as well as developing nations throughout the world, and helps students understand the problems facing these nations today. In many ways the current conditions in East Africa resemble those that existed in the United States from 1800 to 1900. A unique feature of this program is its conclusion. Following the slide presentation the students explore a hands on display of dozens of household items which includes several they observed in African homes during the slide presentation.

THE NORTH AMERICAN WILDERNESS

Environmental and conservation themes related to New York State and wildlife refuges throughout North America are examined to assist students in developing a better understanding of our obligation to preserve and restore the natural environment. During the past 16 years I have photographed a variety of wildlife throughout North America. Often subjects are observed for days, allowing me to photograph them in their natural habitat without my presence disturbing their activities. You are invited to share alpine meadows with mountain goats and go fishing with black bears. The program concludes with the students examining items found along the trails.