EXPANDING ALABAMA’S OUTREACH EFFORTS TO CONSERVE RENEWABLE NATURAL RESOURCES

• Sponsoring Institution: National Institute of Food and Agriculture
• Project Status: COMPLETE
• Funding Source: RREA
• Reporting Frequency: Annual
• Accession No.: 1012197
• Project Start Date: Feb 2, 2017
• Project End Date: Jan 19, 2021
• Program Code: [(N/A)]- (N/A)

Recipient Organization
ALABAMA A&M UNIVERSITY
4900 MERIDIAN STREET
NORMAL,AL 35762

Performing Department
Cooperative Extension Service

Non Technical Summary
The protection of the environment and the sustainability of its renewable natural resources (i.e., water, soil, plants, etc.) is becoming a critical issue. Nevertheless, major segments of society remain unenthusiastic about nature and the benefits and values obtained from it. In short, there is a real case of "nature deficit disorder" and it's apparent among both youth and adults [Renewable Resources Extension Act (RREA), 2012-2016]. As urban communities continue to grow and expand, issues such as wildlife management, deforestation, and natural resource conservation are progressively becoming a concern for many communities. Drastic changes in climate and weather patterns only perpetuate these issues and warrant a need for increased outreach by Extension professionals. Notably, the future lies in the hands of our citizens and their ability to make informed decisions is extremely important. They must be fully prepared to make a conscious effort to protect resources, like forest and range landswhenever possible. Extension and outreach are quintessential tools for garnering such in-depth involvement, and ensuring increased adoption of the best management practices (BMPs) necessary to manage and protect these resources.The Alabama Cooperative Extension System's Urban Affairs and New Nontraditional Program Unit at Alabama A&M University notes that education is key to advances in conservation (ACES-UANNP Plan of Work, 2011-2015). The Urban Environmental Science Education Program (UESeP) was developed to increase access to environmental education for those with limited resources in hopes of enhancing knowledge and maximizing conservation efforts to affect change. The program offers an integrated, research-based curriculum filled with science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) principles focused on natural resources, forestry, wildlife, and waste management. Its primary objectives are to 1) improve environmental literacy, 2) increase cognitive learning skills among youth, 3) and promote positive behavior change among stakeholders. The theme of UESeP is "Conserve Today, to Preserve Tomorrow". This program provides a framework for stakholdersto become better stewards by identifying environmental issues and providing unbiased, science-based information to aid in their understanding of these issues. UESeP features two components; the first entitled Youth Exploring Environmental Science (YEeS), is a youth enrichment program consisting of workshops and field days held throughout Alabama. The second component, termed Engaging Citizens through Environmental Education (ECEE) targets Extension's adult clientele,which consists of landowners and natural resourceprofessionals. Thisprogram is inline with the stragetic goals of the Renewable Resources Extention Act and offers a great opportunity for expansion, in essence making it more comprehensive and beneficial to ongoing efforts to preserve and protect renewable natural resources.

Animal Health Component

(N/A)

Research Effort Categories

Basic

(N/A)

Applied

(N/A)

Developmental

(N/A)

Classification

Knowledge Area (KA)	Subject of Investigation (SOI)	Field of Science (FOS)	Percent
112	0210	3020	20%
132	0430	3020	10%
135	0850	3020	20%
111	0210	3020	10%
806	0399	3020	20%
121	0799	3020	10%
136	0850	3020	10%

Knowledge Area
135 - Aquatic and Terrestrial Wildlife; 806 - Youth Development; 136 - Conservation of Biological Diversity; 112 - Watershed Protection and Management; 111 - Conservation and Efficient Use of Water; 132 - Weather and Climate; 121 - Management of Range Resources;

Subject Of Investigation
0850 - Wildlife habitats; 0430 - Climate; 0799 - Rangelands and grasslands, general; 0210 - Water resources; 0399 - Watersheds and river basins, general;

Field Of Science
3020 - Education;

Keywords

natural resource conservation

fish and wildlife management

landowners

outreach

water resources

Goals / Objectives
The project aligns with RREA Strategic Goal 1: Ensuring Healthy Ecosystems (Strategies 1.1, 1.2 & 1.3); Strategic Goal 3: Enhancing Resource Management on Working Forests and Rangelands (Strategies 3.2, 3.3 & 3.4)and Strategic Goal 4: Building Capacity through Enhanced Connection (Strategies 4.1, 4.3 & 4.4). The cross-cutting issues addressed are as follows: fish and wildlife resources, water andwetlandsand climatic variability.The Primary Goal of this five-year RREA project is to expand the delivery capacity of the Urban Environmental Science Education Program (UESeP) by (Objective 1) utilizing workshops, seminars/webinars, demonstrations, expos and field days to help individuals better understand and tackle renewable resource issues [RREA FY 2017 (1)]; (Objective 2) diversifying the program by including new educational content on practices, such as watershed and wildlifemanagement [RREA FY 2017 (1)]; (Objective 3) increasing access to research findings on renewable resources to landowners as well as to trained fish and wildlife, forestry and related professionals [RREA FY 2017 (2) & (6)]; (Objective 4) enriching the program by working with local farmers, ranchers, and professionals to improve the condition of eco-sensitive fish and wildlife habitats and ecosystems [RREA FY 2017 (1)]; and (Objective 5) incorporating more interactive and participatory fish and wildlife management and water resource components into the UESeP youth curriculum [FY 2017 (5) & (7)] (RREA Modification, 2017). Note: [RREA FY 2017 (1-8)]refertothe Executive Summary sectionof the Renewable Resources Extension Act Program: Modifications: Pages 4, 12 & 13. Request for Applications.Objective 1). Utilize workshops, seminars/webinars, demonstrations, expos and field days to help individuals better understand and tackle renewable resource issues. We will offer an array of forums that introduce concepts ranging from watershed managementto disaster preparedness (i.e., flooding, drought, storms, etc.) in an effort to provide landowners and managers with the resources and information necessary to protect and enhance the management oftheir nonrenewable resources. We will share existing, practical and effective tools by demonstrating BMPs through field site visits. Lastly, we will target new landowners in an effort to minimize mismanagement associated with intergenerational land ownership and general discontinuity of land ownership.Objective 2) Diversify the program by including new educational content on practices, such rangeland and watershed management. The program content will be expanded to include materials (i.e., computer, printed, activities, blogs, etc.) for wildlife managementand water resource protection from Alabama Agricultural and Mechanical University (AAMU) scientists (i.e., foresters, water quality and wildlife specialists), the Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), and other state and federal agencies. We will make clientele aware of opportunities, current trends, risks and benefits associated with various issues, including protecting soil and water quality and climatic variability(i.e., drought, flooding, etc.). We will also work to make more information computer-based and web-friendly to increase access for Extension clientele. Websites will be linked to ACES waterconservation, forestry and natural resources existing sites.Objective 3): Increase access to research findings on renewable resources to landowners as well as to trained fish and wildlife, forestry and related professionals. We will utilize outreach to disseminate current researched-based information on forestry, wildlife and water resources. We will also work to facilitate the relationship between landowners and researchers (i.e., University, state, government, etc.) by enhancing research-extension partnerships; ensuring that landowners have access to the up-to-date research needed to make responsible resource management decisions. Objective 4). Enrich the program by working with local farmers, ranchers, and professionals to improve fish and wildlife habitats in eco-sensitive areas [FY 2017 (1)]. Fish and wildlife habitats are among the ecosystem-driven public resources that we will work to improve through application of management techniques capable of enhancing the environmental quality of agricultural and forested landscapes. We will promote relationships between landowners and NRCS staff, foresters of other related professionals to acquire recommendations and improvements that enhance areas that might be eco-sensitive and pose some risk to wildlife and proximate renewable resources.Objective 5): Incorporate more interactive and participatory fish and wildlife management and water resource components into the youth curriculum. Use of hands-on wildlife replicas often improves one's understanding of wildlife concepts, like identification, habitat, survival traits, and predator and prey classification. Additionally, they help educate citizens on wildlife and natural resource conservation issues and illustrate how their actions can affect the environment and its inhabitants. Information on endangered species will be incorporated to assist in changing citizens' attitudes and behaviors towards wildlife.

Project Methods
The project aims to provide multidisciplinary information through a series of statewide indoor and outdoor workshops, expos and demonstrations. All activities will be aimed at addressing wildlife management and renewable natural resource issues for landowners, managers and stakeholders. Promotion of the Extension activities will be through websites, conferences, educational contacts, and water conservation and natural resources organizations. Extension and research personnel as well as students will develop new materials. AAMU faculty will also provide timely material for training materials and websites. Increases in stakeholders' knowledge concerning renewable natural resources will be accessed utilizing pre/posttest measures. Post-delayed surveys will be sent 6 to 12 months later to measure behavior changes as demonstrated by adoption of BMPs. Impact surveys and questionnaires will also be utilized to improve the quality of programming. Specific evaluation elements [e.g., building program capacity in delivery and technology utilization; learning outcomes; increased knowledge gained, assessment of participant behavioral changes will be utilized. Measurable outcomes gauging program success and learning will be participant driven and include, but not be limited to the number of participants involved in training workshops, symposiums, and field days; and the number of clientele adopting BMPs. The program will also be evaluated on efficacy of the workshops and the educational materials developed. An internal evaluation committee, will convene annually to discuss relevant project outcomes. The project's progress will be evaluated yearly, and there will be an annual report that assesses benchmarks, the quality of content deliverables, and the program's capacity to effect change. Additionally, 8 to 10% of funding will be provided for a program evaluator. Funds will also be used to support a biweekly undergraduate student.

Progress 02/02/17 to 01/19/21

Outputs
Target Audience:The target audience was diverse including urban, rural, and nontraditional audiences. It included landowners, foresters, natural resource professionals, producers, stakeholders, youth, educators, and the general public. It also included those who were economically and socially disadvantaged. Changes/Problems:The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in unprecedented challenges and innovations to traditional delivery modes for extension programming in FY 2020-2021. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Several forestry, wildlife, and natural resources management planning meetings and trainings were held during the year to coordinate the activities of the RREA program. The Team also participated in several professional development opportunities during the FY 2020-2021 program year. On May 9-12, 2021, a three-day team in-service training was held at the 4-H Center in Columbiana, AL. Extension Agents were trained on various natural resource topics, including forestry ecology, water chemistry, and herpetology. In addition, face-to-face and Zoom online sessions were held to develop work plans and discuss program marketing, delivery, and implementation. Team members participated in the National Urban Extension Leaders (NUEL) Virtual Summit (May 19-20, 2021), the AAMU-ACES Urban Summit Virtual Conference (November 19-20, 2020), the SR-PLN, AEA, ASRED Joint Virtual Meeting (August 24-27, 2021), the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Educators Virtual Journey: ISTE Live 22 (June 2-29, 2021), the ISTE Summer Learning Academy (August 2-13, 2021), and the Creative Constructor Lab Virtual (Oct. 15-17th). Team members also engaged in other training opportunities offered by the Alabama Rivers Alliance, Penn State Extension, Project Learning Tree (PLT), and the Southeast Prevention Technology Transfer Center Network. Additional workshops included the Alabama Watershed Stewards Workshop (July 16, 2021) and the Alabama Water Resources Conference (August 8-10, 2021). Additionally, the Team received training on Nearpod, Zoom, and Qualtrics. Certifications were obtained for both Nearpod and the ISTE Summer Learning Academy. Participation in the local and National Association of Natural Resource Extension Professionals (ANREP) was also continued. Investigators also attended unit and departmental meetings to understand budget and reporting guidelines better. Like previous years, these opportunities were used to seek out research-based solutions to natural resource issues that would enhance the development and delivery of the program. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Notably, COVID-19 greatly impacted the Team's potential to share findings at local and national conferences, meetings, and symposiums in the traditional way. Nonetheless, there were forums where outcomes were shared face-to-face. They included the 26th Annual Alabama Beekeeping Symposium on February 6-7, 2021, in Cullman, AL (n=188), the Alabama Water Resources Conference and Symposium on August 8-10, 2021 in Orange Beach, AL, a Tornado Preparedness and Chainsaw Safety Workshop on April 13, 2021, in Tuscumbia, AL (n=11), Earth Day 2021 in Huntsville, AL (n=488), and several citywide Shred Days in northern Alabama. In addition, an oral presentation for the AEA 2021 System-wide Extension Conference in Orlando, FL, was postponed and rescheduled for Summer 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Program impacts were highlighted in local newspapers (i.e., Moulton Advertiser), success stories, and state and federal annual reports. Information and outcomes were also shared with communities of interest using radio, television, newsletters (i.e., ANREP Quarterly Newsletter, the ACES-FWNR Newsletter, and the AEA Newsletter), magazines, and internet online media sources like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The virtual programs yielded Instagram Impressions of 327 and Engagements of 2383, along with thousands of online page views. Several Biteable and YouTube videos also received thousands of views throughout the program year, including a pollinator video on Youtube with almost 2000 views. The Team disseminated an estimated 650 brochures, 740 publications, and 1550 digital flyers during programming efforts in FY 2020-2021. The Team also distributed over 4000 direct mailers during Earth Month to promote environmental stewardship in six counties. COVID-19 also increased social media use for promotion, marketing, and delivery. Lastly, research findings were published in the Journal of Environmental Science and Engineering. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals? Nothing Reported

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Several outreach programs were implemented during FY 2020-2021 by five Urban Regional Extension Agents (UREAs), one statewide Extension Specialist, and two Associate Professors representing twelve counties. The activities focused on the overall goal of this five-year RREA project, expanding the delivery capacity of the Urban Environmental Science Education Program (UESEP). The activities promoted positive behavior changes toward natural resource conservation among diverse stakeholders. Although the COVID-19 pandemic curtailed programming, new delivery modes and program innovations did unfold. A host of workshops, demonstrations, and virtual webinars were delivered to help individuals better understand and tackle conservation issues, protect renewable natural resources, and enhance the overall health of Alabama's private forest and rangeland resources. Although programming has not fully returned to a traditional setting, some programs were provided face-to-face. A Tornado Preparedness and Chainsaw Safety Workshop was held on April 13, 2021, in Tuscumbia, AL (n=11). The workshop offered on-site demonstrations covering an array of chainsaw safety practices, including design, limbing, bucking, and basic felling. It also provided information on disaster evacuation, sheltering, and preparing emergency kits. Team members also assisted with a Forest to Farm Academy on April 22, 2021, in Tuscaloosa, AL (n=30), and an Alabama Sheep and Goat Summit on September 25, 2021, in Hazel Green, AL (n=78). The events provided forage management, silviculture, and agroforestry best management practices (BMPs). The programs' results indicated significant knowledge gains. COVID-19 presented unique opportunities to advance natural resource conservation through ultramodern delivery methods. The Eco-friendly Fridays Environmental Education Virtual Webinar Series offered effective BMPs to safeguard human, animal, and environmental health and practical solutions to help citizens reduce their ecological footprint. The series was offered in the Spring and Fall of 2021. Speakers included a local emergency management officer and a geoscientist covering disaster preparedness and climate change issues. Ninety-six percent of the Fall participants reported knowledge gains on environmental issues; 89% planned to implement a shared BMP; 90% planned to share what they learned with family and friends; 71% felt they achieved a social expectation of providing a safer home for their family, and 96% felt they achieved an environmental expectation of becoming a better environmental steward. Participants' responses to the virtual webinars were as follows: "Interesting workshop." "Learned a lot." "Great program." Post survey results revealed that 89% of past participants had implemented at least one recommended BMP. The second Camp Conservation for Teachers Virtual Workshop Series was offered as an online professional development course, with continuing education units (CEUs). Four 1.5-hour training sessions were offered June 22 - July 1, 2021. Participants were introduced to UESEP and its adopted curriculum, Project Learning Tree (PLT). The series explored concepts of environment, science, technology, engineering, and math (E-STEM). The program was a collaborative endeavor and included participation from organizations like the Alabama Forestry Foundation. A host of extension agents, professors, and natural resource professionals shared ways teachers could integrate environmental education into STEM learning. The participants were provided with strategies to enhance student learning outcomes and improve their ability to engage students in formal and informal settings. Topics ranged from forest ecology to wildlife management. It offered classroom lessons and virtual, outdoor demonstrations designed to increase a youth's ability to PERFORM [Problem Solve, Evaluate, Reason, Focus, Observe, Research a Problem and Measure]. CEUs were made available through the Alabama Math Science Technology Initiative (AMSTI). Of those surveyed, 93% planned to share what they learned within the next six months; 86% achieved the environmental expectation of becoming a better environmental steward; 65% achieved an environmental expectation of saving money in the classroom, and 100% felt that the course increased their knowledge of ESTEM topics [(n=41); male (12%) and female (87%)]. Significant knowledge gains were observed on forestry, trees, and forest ecosystems content. Post delayed results indicated that 35% of returning teachers had shared what they learned in the first series with their students. Camp Conservation addressed critical issues with public awareness and youth engagement, as highlighted in RREA's 2018-2022 Strategic Plan. The Environmental Exploration Virtual Series was offered as five-part weekly series to teach 3rd through 5th graders about energy, water, wildlife, and natural resources. Program demographics were as follows: (n=288), Male (34%), Female (66%), White (60%), Black (8%), American Indian (7%), and Other (23%). Of the student participants surveyed, 58% felt the program made them want to protect the environment. Results revealed that the series was most effective at increasing the student's ability to observe (23%), evaluate (20%), and reason (19%) as it relates to the acronym PERFORM. Other unit offerings included an English and Bilingual Lend an EAR: Environmental Awareness through Reading Virtual Series, which reached an estimated 920 elementary students. The program helps youth foster an appreciation for natural resources through reading. Program demographics for teachers were as follows: (n=41), Male (0%), Female (100%); White (15%), Black (80%); and Other (5%). Results from teachers surveyed revealed that 61% felt the books supported their STEM learning outcomes; 70% felt the books were useful for the students' literacy development; and 56% felt the series helped them achieve an expectation of becoming a better environmental steward. Further, 29% of the teachers felt that the students showed a greater interest in exploring nature and the outdoors; 21% agreed that the children expressed greater interest in natural resource topics, and 17% agreed that the children expressed more interest in protecting natural resources after completing the storytime series. Program comments were as follows: "It was great." "The students enjoy listening to and participating in the activities. That's what I love about it." "I enjoy all Lend an Ear has to offer." "This is an excellent program for students." The Team won several awards in FY 2020-2021. The UESEP program earned the first Outstanding Youth Education Program Award from Alabama ANREP (July 7, 2021). Additionally, the Team was voted the 2021 Alabama PLT Education Partner of the Year by the Alabama Project Learning Tree Steering Committee for promoting conservation education in collaboration with PLT. Lastly, the Extension Agent representing Morgan and Lawrence counties was awarded Partner of the Year by Alabama's Mountains, Rivers, and Valleys RC&D Council. The team members also collaborated to provide a Small Ruminant Production Virtual Series (n=189) and an At-Home Beekeeping Virtual Webinar Series (January 26 - June 29, 2021). Findings indicated that participants (n=940) would save money using the information they learned in the beekeeping classes. Team members assisted with planning and implementing the Annual Alabama Beekeepers Symposium (February 1, 2020). The Team also worked with local partners, such as the Alabama Urban Forestry Association, on a tree-planting project to increase the number of certified arborists in Huntsville, AL. Social media analytics revealed significant increases in program reach, impressions, and engagements compared to the previous year.

Publications

• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Urban Environmental Science Education Program. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Natural Resources. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/business-community-products-programs-urban/uesep/
• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: A. Shabel, M. Dixon, and K. Garner 2021. Environmental Education Virtual Webinar Series. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Natural Resources. Products and Programs. Retrieved August 10, 2021. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/natural-resources-urban/environmental-education-virtual-webinar-series/
• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: R. Robinson. 2021. Lend an EAR Story Time Series. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Natural Resources. Products and Programs. Retrieved August 21, 2021. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/products-programs-urban/lendanear-story-time-series/
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Environmental Education Virtual Webinar Series Flyer. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Natural Resources. https://www.aces.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/EESeriesFlyer-1.pdf
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: P. Okweye, K. Garner, Z. McCullers, M. Hutchinson, and N. Sheeley (2021). The Presence of Contaminants of Emerging Concern (CECs) and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in Northern Alabama Aquatic Ecosystems. Journal of Environmental Science and Engineering B. 10. 10.17265/2162-5263/2021.03.001.
• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: K. Steedley and K. Garner. 2021. Bilingual Lend an EAR Story Time Series August 3, 2021 Posted by: Kerry Steedley and Karnita Garner https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/products-programs-urban/bilingual-lend-an-ear-story-time-series/ Retrieved August 3, 2021.
• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: K. Steedley and K. Garner. 2021. Dothan Teen Nature Club. Retrieved August 19, 2021. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/natural-resources-urban/dothan-teen-nature-club/
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: R. Robinson. 2021. The Fall Crawl  Keeping Pests Out of the Home. Retrieved October 11, 2021. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/home-family-urban/the-fall-crawl-keeping-pests-out-of-the-home/
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: K. Garner. 2021. Spending Time in Nature. Retrieved August 10, 2021. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/urbanextension/spending-time-in-nature/
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: K. Steedley. 2021. Parents as Environmental Leaders. Retrieved March 17, 2021. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/homefamily-urban/parents-as-environmental-leaders/
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: M. Dixon, A. Shabel, T. Mason, and K. Garner. 2021. Retrieved. June 23, 2021. Lets Erase E-Waste. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/natural-resources-urban/lets-erase-e-waste/
• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: M.Dixon and K. Garner. Environmental Exploration Virtual Webinar Series. Retrieved August 2, 2021. https://www.aces.edu/event/environmental-exploration-6/
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: P. Okweye and K. Garner. (2021). Assessment of Physicochemical Parameters and Heavy Metals in the Surface Water of North Alabama. Journal of Environmental Science and Engineering A. 10. 10.17265/2162-5298/2021.03.001.

Progress 10/01/20 to 01/19/21

Outputs
Target Audience:The target audience was diverse including urban, rural, and nontraditional audiences. It included landowners, foresters,natural resource professionals, producers, stakeholders, youth, educators, and the general public. It also included those whowere economically and socially disadvantaged. Changes/Problems:The COVID-19 pandemic resulted in unprecedented challenges and innovations to traditional delivery modes for extension programming in FY 2020-2021. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Several forestry, wildlife, and natural resources management planning meetings and trainings were held during the year to coordinate the activities of the RREA program. The Team also participated in several professional development opportunities during the FY 2020-2021 program year. On May 9-12, 2021, a three-day team in-service training was held at the 4-H Center in Columbiana, AL. Extension Agents were trained on various natural resource topics, including forestry ecology, water chemistry, and herpetology. In addition, face-to-face and Zoom online sessions were held to develop work plans and discuss program marketing, delivery, and implementation. Team members participated in the National Urban Extension Leaders (NUEL) Virtual Summit (May 19-20, 2021), the AAMU-ACES Urban Summit Virtual Conference (November 19-20, 2020), the SR-PLN, AEA, ASRED Joint Virtual Meeting (August 24-27, 2021), the International Society for Technology in Education (ISTE) Educators Virtual Journey: ISTE Live 22 (June 2-29, 2021), the ISTE Summer Learning Academy (August 2-13, 2021), and the Creative Constructor Lab Virtual (Oct. 15-17th). Team members also engaged in other training opportunities offered by the Alabama Rivers Alliance, Penn State Extension, Project Learning Tree (PLT), and the Southeast Prevention Technology Transfer Center Network. Additional trainingincluded the Alabama Watershed Stewards Workshop (July 16, 2021) and the Alabama Water Resources Conference (August 8-10, 2021). The Team received training on Nearpod, Zoom, and Qualtrics. Certifications were obtained for both Nearpod and the ISTE Summer Learning Academy. Participation in the local and National Association of Natural Resource Extension Professionals (ANREP) was also continued. Investigators also attended unit and departmental meetings to understand budget and reporting guidelines better. Like previous years, these opportunities were used to seek out research-based solutions to natural resource issues that would enhance the development and delivery of the program. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Notably, COVID-19 greatly impacted the Team's potential to share findings at local and national conferences, meetings, and symposiums in the traditional way. Nonetheless, there were forums where outcomes were shared face-to-face. They included the 26th Annual Alabama Beekeeping Symposium on February 6-7, 2021, in Cullman, AL (n=188), the Alabama Water Resources Conference and Symposium on August 8-10, 2021 in Orange Beach, AL, a Tornado Preparedness and Chainsaw Safety Workshop on April 13, 2021, in Tuscumbia, AL (n=11), Earth Day 2021 in Huntsville, AL (n=488), and several citywide Shred Days in northern Alabama. In addition, an oral presentation for the AEA 2021 System-wide Extension Conference in Orlando, FL, was postponed and rescheduled for Summer 2022 due to the COVID-19 pandemic. Program impacts were highlighted in local newspapers (i.e., Moulton Advertiser), success stories, and state and federal annual reports. Information and outcomes were also shared with communities of interest using radio, television, newsletters (i.e., ANREP Quarterly Newsletter, the ACES-FWNR Newsletter, and the AEA Newsletter), magazines, and internet online media sources like Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. The virtual programs yielded Instagram Impressions of 327 and Engagements of 2383, along with thousands of online page views. Several Biteable and YouTube videos also received thousands of views throughout the program year, including a pollinator video on YouTube with almost 2000 views. The Team disseminated an estimated 650 brochures, 740 publications, and 1550 digital flyers during programming efforts in FY 2020-2021. The Team also distributed over 4000 direct mailers during Earth Month to promote environmental stewardship in six counties. COVID-19 also increased social media use for promotion, marketing, and delivery. Lastly, research findings were published in the Journal of Environmental Science and Engineering. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?The next reporting period will include planning, coordinating, and implementing additional virtual and traditional workshops, demonstrations, webinars, tours, and field days to advance this RREA project. In particular, efforts will continue to provide forestry, chainsaw safety, disaster preparedness, and agroforestry programs to improve climate resiliency and forestland management. Virtual programs aimed at strengthening stewardship, like the Ecofriendly Fridays Environmental Education Virtual Webinar Series, Camp Conservation, Lend an EAR, the Teen Nature Club, and Environmental Explorations, will also continue. The programs will use Zoom, Panopto, Canvas Catalog, the ACES YouTube channel. The delivery modes will be blended and offered in hybrid settings, coupling interactive sessions with self-paced material.Additionally, work will be continued to publish findings from the research and outreach efforts of the RREA project. There will be continued training of Extension staff and strengthening of partnerships to extend the program's reach. Proposed activities include participation in the 2022 ACES Raising Goats in Forestland Online Virtual Class, the 2022 ACES Natural Resources Webinar Series, the AEA Conference (July 31 - August 4, 2022), the ANREP Conference (June 1-3, 2022), the Alabama Water Resources Conference (September 7-9, 2022), and the Annual Beekeeping Symposium (February 5-6, 2022).

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Several outreach programs were implemented during FY 2020-2021 by five Urban Regional Extension Agents (UREAs), one statewide Extension Specialist, and two Associate Professors representing twelve counties. The activities focused on the overall goal of this five-year RREA project, expanding the delivery capacity of the Urban Environmental Science Education Program (UESEP). The activities promoted positive behavior changes toward natural resource conservation among diverse stakeholders. Although the COVID-19 pandemic curtailed programming, new delivery modes and program innovations did unfold. A host of workshops, demonstrations, and virtual webinars were delivered to help individuals better understand and tackle conservation issues, protect renewable natural resources, and enhance the overall health of Alabama's private forest and rangeland resources. Although programming has not fully returned to a traditional setting, some programs were provided face-to-face. A Tornado Preparedness and Chainsaw Safety Workshop was held on April 13, 2021, in Tuscumbia, AL (n=11). The workshop offered on-site demonstrations covering an array of chainsaw safety practices, including design, limbing, bucking, and basic felling. It also provided information on disaster evacuation, sheltering, and preparing emergency kits. Team members also assisted with a Forest to Farm Academy on April 22, 2021, in Tuscaloosa, AL (n=30), and an Alabama Sheep and Goat Summit on September 25, 2021, in Hazel Green, AL (n=78). The events provided forage management, silviculture, and agroforestry best management practices (BMPs). The programs' results indicated significant knowledge gains. The COVID-19 pandemic presented unique opportunities to advance natural resource conservation through ultramodern delivery methods. The Eco-friendly Fridays Environmental Education Virtual Webinar Series offered effective BMPs to safeguard human, animal, and environmental health and practical solutions to help citizens reduce their ecological footprint. The series was offered in the Spring and Fall of 2021. Speakers included a local emergency management officer and a geoscientist covering disaster preparedness and climate change issues. Ninety-six percent of the Fall participants reported knowledge gains on environmental issues; 89% planned to implement a shared BMP; 90% planned to share what they learned with family and friends; 71% felt they achieved a social expectation of providing a safer home for their family, and 96% felt they achieved an environmental expectation of becoming a better environmental steward. Participants' responses to the virtual webinars were as follows: "Interesting workshop." "Learned a lot." "Great program." Post survey results revealed that 89% of past participants had implemented at least one recommended BMP. The second Camp Conservation for Teachers Virtual Workshop Series was offered as an online professional development course, with continuing education units (CEUs). Four 1.5-hour training sessions were offered June 22 - July 1, 2021. Participants were introduced to UESEP and its adopted curriculum, Project Learning Tree (PLT). The series explored concepts of environment, science, technology, engineering, and math (E-STEM). The program was a collaborative endeavor and included participation from organizations like the Alabama Forestry Foundation. A host of extension agents, professors, and natural resource professionals shared ways teachers could integrate environmental education into STEM learning. The participants were provided with strategies to enhance student learning outcomes and improve their ability to engage students in formal and informal settings. Topics ranged from forest ecology to wildlife management. It offered classroom lessons and virtual, outdoor demonstrations designed to increase a youth's ability to PERFORM [Problem Solve, Evaluate, Reason, Focus, Observe, Research a Problem and Measure]. CEUs were made available through the Alabama Math Science Technology Initiative (AMSTI). Of those surveyed, 93% planned to share what they learned within the next six months; 86% achieved the environmental expectation of becoming a better environmental steward; 65% achieved an environmental expectation of saving money in the classroom, and 100% felt that the course increased their knowledge of ESTEM topics [(n=41); male (12%) and female (87%)]. Significant knowledge gains were observed on forestry, trees, and forest ecosystems content. Post delayed results indicated that 35% of returning teachers had shared what they learned in the first series with their students. Camp Conservation addressed critical issues with public awareness and youth engagement, as highlighted in RREA's 2018-2022 Strategic Plan. The Environmental Exploration Virtual Series was offered as five-part weekly series to teach 3rd through 5th graders about energy, water, wildlife, and natural resources. Program demographics were as follows: (n=288), Male (34%), Female (66%), White (60%), Black (8%), American Indian (7%), and Other (23%). Of the student participants surveyed, 58% felt the program made them want to protect the environment. Results revealed that the series was most effective at increasing the student's ability to observe (23%), evaluate (20%), and reason (19%) as it relates to the acronym PERFORM.Other unit offerings included an English and Bilingual Lend an EAR: Environmental Awareness through Reading Virtual Series, which reached an estimated 920 elementary students. The program helps youth foster an appreciation for natural resources through reading. Program demographics for teachers were as follows: (n=41), Male (0%), Female (100%); White (15%), Black (80%); and Other (5%). Results from teachers surveyed revealed that 61% felt the books supported their STEM learning outcomes; 70% felt the books were useful for the students' literacy development; and 56% felt the series helped them achieve an expectation of becoming a better environmental steward. Further, 29% of the teachers felt that the students showed a greater interest in exploring nature and the outdoors; 21% agreed that the children expressed greater interest in natural resource topics, and 17% agreed that the children expressed more interest in protecting natural resources after completing the storytime series. Program comments were as follows: "It was great." "The students enjoy listening to and participating in the activities. That's what I love about it." "I enjoy all Lend an Ear has to offer." "This is an excellent program for students." The Team won several awards in FY 2020-2021. The UESEP program earned the first Outstanding Youth Education Program Award from Alabama ANREP (July 7, 2021). Additionally, the Team was voted the 2021 Alabama PLT Education Partner of the Year by the Alabama Project Learning Tree Steering Committee for promoting conservation education in collaboration with PLT. Lastly, the Extension Agent representing Morgan and Lawrence counties was awarded Partner of the Year by Alabama's Mountains, Rivers, and Valleys RC&D Council. The team members also collaborated to provide a Small Ruminant Production Virtual Series (n=189) and an At-Home Beekeeping Virtual Webinar Series (January 26 - June 29, 2021). Findings indicated that participants (n=940) would save money using the information they learned in the beekeeping classes. Team members assisted with planning and implementing the Annual Alabama Beekeepers Symposium (February 1, 2020). The Team also worked with local partners, such as the Alabama Urban Forestry Association, on a tree-planting project to increase the number of certified arborists in Huntsville, AL. Social media analytics revealed significant increases in program reach, impressions, and engagements compared to the previous year.

Publications

• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Urban Environmental Science Education Program. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Natural Resources. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/business-community-products-programs-urban/uesep/
• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: A. Shabel, M. Dixon, and K. Garner 2021. Environmental Education Virtual Webinar Series. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Natural Resources. Products and Programs. Retrieved August 10, 2021. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/natural-resources-urban/environmental-education-virtual-webinar-series/
• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: R. Robinson. 2021. Lend an EAR Story Time Series. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Natural Resources. Products and Programs. Retrieved August 21, 2021. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/products-programs-urban/lendan-ear-story-time-series/
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: Environmental Education Virtual Webinar Series Flyer. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Natural Resources. https://www.aces.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/EESeriesFlyer-1.pdf
• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: K. Steedley and K. Garner. 2021. Bilingual Lend an EAR Story Time Series August 3, 2021 Posted by: Kerry Steedley and Karnita Garner https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/products-programs-urban/bilingual-lend-an-ear-story-time-series/ Retrieved August 3, 2021.
• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: K. Steedley and K. Garner. 2021. Dothan Teen Nature Club. Retrieved August 19, 2021. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/natural-resources-urban/dothan-teen-nature-club/
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: P. Okweye, K. Garner, Z. McCullers, M. Hutchinson, and N. Sheeley (2021). The Presence of Contaminants of Emerging Concern (CECs) and Volatile Organic Compounds (VOCs) in Northern Alabama Aquatic Ecosystems. Journal of Environmental Science and Engineering B. 10. 10.17265/2162-5263/2021.03.001.
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: R. Robinson. 2021. The Fall Crawl  Keeping Pests Out of the Home. Retrieved October 11, 2021. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/home-family-urban/the-fall-crawl-keeping-pests-out-of-the-home/
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: K. Garner. 2021. Spending Time in Nature. Retrieved August 10, 2021. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/urban-extension/spending-time-in-nature/
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: K. Steedley. 2021. Parents as Environmental Leaders. Retrieved March 17, 2021. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/home-family-urban/parents-as-environmental-leaders/
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: M. Dixon, A. Shabel, T. Mason, and K. Garner. 2021. Retrieved. June 23, 2021. Lets Erase E-Waste. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/natural-resources-urban/lets-erase-e-waste/
• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: M.Dixon and K. Garner. Environmental Exploration Virtual Webinar Series. Retrieved August 2, 2021. https://www.aces.edu/event/environmental-exploration-6/
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2021 Citation: P. Okweye and K. Garner. (2021). Assessment of Physicochemical Parameters and Heavy Metals in the Surface Water of North Alabama. Journal of Environmental Science and Engineering A. 10. 10.17265/2162-5298/2021.03.001.

Progress 10/01/19 to 09/30/20

Outputs
Target Audience:The target audience was diverse including urban, rural, and nontraditional audiences. It included landowners, foresters, natural resource professionals, producers, stakeholders, youth, educators, and the general public. It also included those who were economically and socially disadvantaged. Changes/Problems:The onset of COVID-19 resulted in unprecedented challenges and innovations to traditional delivery modes for extension programming in FY 2019-2020. What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Like in previous years, several forestry, wildlife, and natural resource conservation trainings were held during the year, including several in-service trainings focused on improving technology skillsets on student engagement platforms, like Nearpod. The team also participated in several professional development opportunities, including the International Conference on Life Sciences, Engineering and Technology (ILSET) [April 22-25, 2021], the Urban Summit Virtual Conference [November 19-20, 2020]; and regularly scheduled Southern Region NUEL meetings. The team also participated in a host of webinars including, the Alabama Rivers Alliance: Water is Life Series; and a wide variety of webinars offered by Southern Regional Extension Forestry (SREF) and RREA. The project facilitated training for new extension agents on the PLT curriculum. Participation in the local and national Association of Natural Resource Extension Professionals (ANREP) was also continued. All professional development opportunities were used to seek out research-based solutions and gather new information. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Notably, COVID-19 significantly impacted the team's potential to share Extension findings at local and national conferences, meetings, and symposiums. Nonetheless, information and outcomes were disseminated and shared with communities of interest using radio, television, newsletters (i.e., ANREP Quarterly Newsletter), magazines, and internet online media sources like Facebook and Twitter. Extension findings were disseminated at the 26th Annual Alabama Beekeepers Symposium (January 16, 2020), and research findings were published in the Journal of Environmental Chemistry and Toxicology. Information concerning programs were also highlighted in local newscasts and local newspapers (i.e., Moulton Advertiser) throughout the state, when possible. Several Biteable and YouTube videos also received hundreds of views throughout the program year.Unfortunately, few exhibits showcasing natural resource conservation materials were set up this past year due to COVID-19. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?The next reporting period will include planning, coordinating, and implementing additional virtual and traditional workshops, demonstrations, webinars, tours, and field days to advance this RREA project. In particular, efforts will continue with an Eco-friendly Fridays Environmental Education (EE) Virtual Webinar Series, a Camp Conservation: Exploring Your Future in Forestry Virtual Webinar Series, and the Lend an EAR: Environmental Awareness through Reading Virtual Webinar Series. The courses will entail the use of Zoom, Panopto, Canvas Catalog, the ACES YouTube channel. The delivery modes will be blended and offered in hybrid settings; coupling interactive sessions with self-paced material. Additionally, work will be continued to publish findings from the research and outreach efforts of the RREA project. There will also be continued training for Extension staff and strengthening of partnerships to extend the program's reach. Proposed activities include participation in the Raising Goats in Forestland Online Virtual Class, the 2021 ACES Natural Resources Webinar Series, the ANREP Virtual Conference (May 23-26, 2021); the Alabama Water Resources Conference and Symposium; the Metro Atlanta Beekeepers Association: An Introduction to Honey Bees and Beekeeping Online Short Course (January 30, 2021); and the 26th Annual Alabama Beekeepers Symposium (February 6-7, 2021).

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Efforts to expand the delivery capacity of the Urban Environmental Science Education Program (UESEP) were addressed with the implementation of several outreach programs during FY 2019-2020. A number of activities were carried out by four Urban Regional Extension Agents (UREAs), one statewide Extension Specialist, and two Associate Professors representing ten counties. The activities focused specifically on the overall goal of this five-year RREA project. They sought to promote positive behavior changes toward natural resource conservation among diverse stakeholders, including youth educators. Notably, the onset of COVID-19 resulted in unprecedented challenges and innovations to traditional delivery modes for extension programming. Nonetheless, workshops, demonstrations, and ultimately virtual webinars were utilized to help individuals better understand and tackle conservation issues, protect renewable natural resources, and enhance the overall health of private forest and rangelands resources in Alabama. In some ways, COVID-19 presented new opportunities to advance natural resource conservation by merely introducing the need to adopt alternative methods of program delivery. To this end, Camp Conservation, a component of UESEP, was offered to kindergarten through 8th-grade teachers nationwide as a professional development course. Guaranteeing that youth grow up with an awareness of their connection to the natural environment is crucial and essential for them to make informed decisions as adults. Often delivery of natural resource education can be challenging for teachers due to the complexity of ecosystem dynamics; this requires developing specific teaching methods. Camp Conservation is typically provided as a six-hour outdoor field day that allows youth to navigate through a set of interactive, natural resource conservation demonstrations. The inabilityto provide Camp Conservation in its traditional format was the catalyst for a new program entitled "Camp Conservation for Teachers: A Virtual Workshop Series. Four 1.5-hour training sessions were offered over two weeks from July 14 to July 23 of 2020. Participants were introduced to UESEP and its adopted curriculum, Project Learning Tree (PLT). This award-winning curriculum offers 96 hands-on, multidisciplinary activities that are correlated to state academic standards. It is designed for educators, parents, and community leaders working with youth and aligns with 4-H and other natural resource literacy programs. Themed "Let's make learning fun by exploring the natural environment," Camp Conservation explored concepts of environment, science, technology, engineering, and math (E-STEM). The program was a collaborative endeavor and included participation from several organizations and state and government agencies, such as the Alabama Forestry Foundation and the USDA Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS). A host of extension agents, professors, and natural resource professionals shared ways teachers could integrate environmental education into STEM learning as a means to improve knowledge and cultivate environmental stewardship among their students. The participants were provided with strategies to effectively enhance student learning outcomes and improve their ability to engage students in formal and informal settings. The series covered E-STEM topics ranging from trees and forest ecosystems to wildlife management and soil and water conservation. It offered classroom lessons and activities and virtual, outdoor demonstrations designed to increase a youth's ability to PERFORM [Problem Solve, Evaluate, Reason, Focus, Observe, Research a Problem and Measure]. A total of sixvideos were developed for the series. Program participants received a copy of the PLT environmental education curriculum and an accompanying e-book as well as educational materials from Alabama Extension. Continuing Education Units (CEUs) were made available through the Alabama Math Science Technology Initiative (AMSTI) for those who completed the professional development course. Extension plays a critical role in extending educational opportunities to youth. The "Camp Conservation for Teachers: A Virtual Workshop Series" addressed critical issues with public awareness and youth engagement, as highlighted in RREA's 2018-2022 Strategic Plan. It fostered new partnerships among Extension, schools, organizations, and state and government agencies. The program also addressed the renewed commitment to serving the needs of youth and adults. Overall the participants (n=105) were very satisfied with the quality of the program. The program demographics were as follows: Male (16%), Female (84%); White (75%), Black (17%); and Other (8%). Ninety-seven percent of the participants surveyed indicated that the training increased their knowledge of E-STEM topics. Ninety-three percent indicated that they planned to implement at least one practice they learned during the training. As a result of the training, 92% of program participants surveyed felt they were able to achieve an environmental expectation of becoming a better steward of the environment. Additional collaborative activities included implementing an Environmental Education (EE) Virtual Webinar Series that offered four one-hour training sessions on traditional conservation topics and new and emerging issues in environmental education. The sessions provided effective best management practices (BMPs) to safeguard human, animal, environmental health, and practical solutions to help people reduce their ecological footprint. It was offered June 23 through September 22, 2020, and even provided a session focused on citizen science. Program demographics (n=135) were as follows: Male (34%), Female (66%); White (46%), Black (49%); and Other (5%). One-hundred percent of the participants surveyed indicated that they learned something new, 92% indicated that they planned to implement at least one BMP learned during the series. Social media analytics revealed a program reach of 1000, 3-second video views of 506, 10-second video views of 154, and post engagements of 39. Natural Resource team members collaborated to provide several beekeeping education courses, including a Fall 2019 Beekeeping Webinar Series [October 15th, 22nd, and 29th] and an At-Home Beekeeping Webinar Series. A Beginner/Intermediate Beekeeping Course's findings indicated that participants (n= 52) would save an estimated $85 each using the information they learned in the classes. A Stay at Home Beekeeping Series revealed that participants (n=5765)estimated the information they learned would save them an average of $71 per person. Team members also assisted with planning and implementing the Annual Alabama Beekeepers Symposium (January 16, 2020) and a project entitled "Advantages of Using Forestland for Meat Goat Production."Programs were promoted via radio, quarterly newsletters, online and social media.

Publications

• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: A. Shabel. 2020. Coronavirus: Curbside Recycling and More. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Home and Family. Online News Article. Retrieved March 30, 2020. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/home-family-urban/coronavirus-curbside-recycling-and-more/
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: K. Garner. 2020. Is Your Drinking Water Safe? Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Natural Resources. Online News Article. Retrieved June 24, 2020. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/natural-resources-urban/is-your-drinking-water-safe/
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: R. Robinson. 2020. WATER You Doing? Water Usage and Conservation. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Home and Family. Online News Article. Retrieved May 18, 2018. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/home-family-urban/water-you-doing-water-usage-and-conservation/
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Camp Conservation for Teachers: A Virtual Workshop Series Flyer. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Natural Resources. https://www.aces.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/CampConservationFlyer-1.pdf
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2019 Citation: Karnita Garner. 2019 Urban Environmental Science Extension Program (UESEP) Brochure. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Revised November 2019. UNP-0145
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: A. Shabel, R. Robinson and K. Garner 2020. Environmental Education Virtual Webinar Series. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Natural Resources. Products and Programs. Retrieved July 14, 2020. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/natural-resources-urban/environmental-education-virtual-webinar-series/
• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Urban Environmental Science Education Program. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Natural Resources. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/business-community-products-programs-urban/uesep/
• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: R. Robinson, A. Smith, A. Shabel, and K. Garner. 2020. Camp Conservation for Teachers: A Virtual Workshop Series. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Natural Resources. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/natural-resources-urban/camp-conservation-for-teachers-a-virtual-workshop-series/
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: J. Miller. 2020. Conserving Water: Small Changes, Big Impact. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Online News Article. Retrieved May 21, 2018. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/news/conserving-water-small-changes-big-impact/
• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: R. Robinson. 2020. Lend an EAR Story Time Series. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Natural Resources. Products and Programs. Retrieved September 21, 2020. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/products-programs-urban/lend-an-ear-story-time-series/
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Environmental Education Virtual Webinar Series Flyer. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Natural Resources. https://www.aces.edu/wp-content/uploads/2020/06/EESeriesFlyer-1.pdf
• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: K. Garner and M. Browning. 2020. Advantages of Using Forestland for Meat Goat Production. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Animals. Retrieved June 9, 2020.https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/animals-urban/advantages-of-using-forestland-for-meat-goat-production/
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: K. Garner. 2020 Coronavirus: Safe and Effective Ways to Use Cleaners and Disinfectant. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Online News Article. Retrieved May 6, 2020. https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/disaster-home-family/an-informational-guide-to-the-coronavirus-covid-19/.
• Type: Journal Articles Status: Published Year Published: 2020 Citation: Okweye P, Golson-Garner K, Moss E. 2020. Distribution of Mercury in Flint Creek Watershed: Implications for Mercury Bioaccumulation. J. Environ Chem Toxicol. 4(2):1.

Progress 10/01/18 to 09/30/19

Outputs
Target Audience:The target audience was diverse including urban, rural and nontraditional audiences. It included landowners, foresters, natural resource professionals, producers, stakeholders, and the general public. It also included those who were economically and socially disadvantaged. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Like in previous years, several forestry, wildlife and natural resource conservation planning meetings and trainings were held during the year to coordinate the activities of the RREA program and its implementation. The team also participated in a number of professional development opportunities; they included attendance at the Madison County Soil and Water Conservation District Niche Farm Conference at the Alabama A&M University Research Station in Hazel Green, AL (March 13, 2019) and the Alabama Water Resources Conference and Symposium in Orange Beach, AL (September 4-5, 2019). The project facilitated a face-to-face training for UREAs on the nationally recognized Project Learning Tree (PLT) curriculum (April 8-9, 2019); an in-service training at the Alabama 4-H Center in Columbiana, AL (July 8-10, 2019), and continued participation in the state and national Association of Natural Resource Extension Professionals (ANREP) organization. These opportunities along with webinar trainings were used to seek out research-based solutions and gather new updates on resource conservation issues. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Information and outcomes were disseminated and/or shared with communities of interest using radio, television, newsletters, magazines, and internet online. Extension findings were presented at local and national conferences, meetings, and symposiums. Promotional brochures were updated via the ACES Marketing and Communication team. Exhibits showcasing natural resource conservation materials were setup at a number of events, including the AMRV Resource Conservation and Development (RC&D) Annual Meeting in Gulf Shores, AL (April 7-8 2019), the Alabama Water Resources Conference and Symposium in Orange Beach, AL (September 4-5, 2019), the Parent-Child Reading Enhancement Program (PCREP) Family Fun Day in Huntsville, AL (June 22, 2019), and the River Region Successful Aging Initiative Conference in Montgomery, AL (September 20, 2019). Information concerning programs were also highlighted in local news casts and in local newspapers throughout the state, when possible. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?The next reporting period will include the planning, coordination and implementation of additional workshops, demonstrations, webinars, and field days to advance this RREA project. Work will be continued to publish findings from the research and outreach efforts of the RREA project. There will be continued training for Extension staff and strengthening of partnerships for collaborative purposes that will extend the reach of the program.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Several programs were conducted in FY 2019 that addressed the overall goal of this five-year RREA project, which is to expand the delivery capacity of the Urban Environmental Science Education Program (UESEP) and to promote positive behavior changes among stakeholders toward natural resource conservation. Workshops, demonstrations, webinars, and field days were utilized to help individuals better understand and tackle conservation issues, protect renewable natural resources, improve worker safety conditions, and enhance the overall health of private forestland in Alabama. The activities were implemented by seven Urban Regional Extension Agents (UREAs), one statewide Extension Specialist, and two Associate Professors representing thirteen counties. Each of the events was a collaborative effort and included participation from a number of state and government agencies. Managing forestland can be a very hazardous job, with many injuries resulting from improper use of chainsaws and failure to use personal protective equipment (PPE). Notably, increased adoption of best management practices (BMPs) are necessary to manage forestland resources and protect the health of those working in forestlands. To this end, three chainsaw safety workshops offering educational information and interactive demonstrations were conducted on May 7-8, 2019 in Coffee County (n= 51), August 20, 2019 in Covington County (n=35) and November 14-15, 2019 in St. Clair County, AL (n= 15). The workshops focused on the basics of chainsaw safety (i.e., starting, design and ergonomics), tree removal, limbing, bucking, basic felling, and proper use of PPE. The workshops included classroom and outdoor hands-on sessions that offered safe, effective BMPs that reduce injuries and decrease medical costs associated with forestry-related injuries. Program participants included municipal, state and government workers, industry professionals, arborists, and private forestland owners. The fifteen participants from St. Clair County alone managed and/or owned more than 10,037 acres of forestland. Workshop results showed significant increases in knowledge among participants along with plans to adopt recommended BMPs. Of the participants surveyed (n=86), 14% had been injured while operating a chainsaw and only 69% were currently using PPE to prevent injuries. Results showed that 82% of participants felt that the workshop was valuable and increased their knowledge on chainsaw safety; 80% planned to use the information provided in the future, and 70% stated that based on what they learned they planned to use PPE when operating a chainsaw in the future. There were also requests for additional information on topics like timber management and pest control [Demographics (n=101): 11% female, 89% male, 84% Caucasian, 14% African American and 2% Other]. Two forestry field days were also offered during FY 2019. The first field day was held in Mobile County (n=31) on May 9, 2019 and conducted in partnership with the following agencies: Mobile County Soil and Water Conservation District, U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA) Natural Resource Conservation Service (NRCS), USDA-Farm Services Agency, Alabama Forestry Commission, Mobile County Farmers Federation, and First South Farm Credit. Topics included management of invasive species and impacts of feral hogs on water quality. Target audiences included private woodland owners, public land managers, forestry consultants and the general public. A second field day was held on May 17, 2019 (n= 36) at the Geneva State Forest in Kinston, AL. It was conducted in partnership with USDA-NRCS, the Alabama Forestry Commission, and Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. The field day included a tour of the Geneva State Forest and demonstrations on drone applications in forestry, portable saw-milling and streamside management zones. Other informative topics included invasive species management (i.e., gopher tortoises, feral hogs and cogongrass), tract management history, predator control, understory release spraying, wildlife management and thinning timing regimes. Participants also received educational credits and information on Alabama timber markets and the USDA-NRCS cost share assistance program. All chainsaw safety demonstrations were performed by an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist, TCIA Certified Tree-care Safety Professional, with ISA Tree Risk Assessment experience. Program participants were provided with landowner resource publications from the Alabama Forestry Commission and ACES. Overall the participants were very satisfied with the quality of the outreach activities. Additional collaborative activities included a bacteriological monitoring workshop in partnership with the Flint River Conservation Association and the Alabama A&M University Department of Physics, Chemistry and Mathematics (October 12, 2019); participation on the planning committee for the Riverton Elementary Outdoor Classroom project; participation in a Beekeeping Webinar series (October 15, 22 and 29, 2019); continued participation on a project entitled "Advantages of Using Forestland for Meat Goat Production" and general outreach programming through UESEP.

Publications

• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2019 Citation: https://www.aces.edu/blog/topics/business-community-products-programs-urban/uesep/
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2019 Citation: Karnita Garner. 2019 Urban Environmental Science Extension Program (UESEP) Brochure. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. Revised November 2019. UNP-0145

Progress 10/01/17 to 09/30/18

Outputs
Target Audience:The target audience was diverse including urban, rural and nontraditional audiences. It included landowners, foresters, natural resource professionals, producers, stakeholders, and the general public. It also included those who were economically and socially disadvantaged. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?A number of forestry, wildlife and natural resource management planning meetings and trainings were held during FY 2018 to coordinate the activities of the RREA program and its implementation. The team also participated in a number of professional development opportunities; they included attendance at the Association of Natural Resource Extension Professionals (ANREP) Biennial Conference, April 29th through May 3rd in Biloxi, MS, the Southern and the 1890s Urban Extension Conference in Chattanooga, TN, August 13-15, 2018, the 2018 Tri-State Expo, the One Health Symposium on Sheep and Goat Production in Orange Beach, AL, August 25-26, 2018, and the Alabama Water Resources Conference and Symposium on September 6-7, 2018 in Orange Beach, AL. These opportunities along with webinar trainings provided by the Forestry and Natural Resources Webinar Portal were used to seek out research-based solutions and gather new updates on conservation issues. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Information and outcomes were disseminated and/or shared with communities of interest using radio, television, newsletters, magazines, internet online and social media. Extension findings were presented at local and national conferences, meetings, and symposiums. An oral presentation entitled "Implementation and Management of a Successful Electronic Waste Disposal Program was presented at the Association of Natural Resource Extension Professionals (ANREP) Biennial Conference, April 29th through May 3rd in Biloxi, MS. Exhibits showcasing natural resource conservation materials were setup at a number of events, including the Southern and the 1890s Urban Extension Conference in Chattanooga, TN, August 13-15, 2018, the 2018 Tri-State Expo, the One Health Symposium on Sheep and Goat Production in Orange Beach, AL, August 25-26, 2018, and the AMRV RC&D Annual Meeting on October 25, 2018 in Guntersville, AL. Information concerning programs were also highlighted in local news casts and in local newspapers throughout the state. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?The next reporting period will include the planning, coordination and implementation of new forums for advancing this RREA project. A forestry field day will be held in Geneva, AL at the Geneva State Forest in the spring of 2018. This field day will be hosted in partnership with the Geneva County Commission, the Alabama Forestry Commission and Alabama Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries. The field day will provide educational credits and informative stations on the following: logging equipment cleaning, streamside management zones, wild pig effects on water quality, invasive plant management, stream crossings and forest roads, and Alabama timber markets. Work will also be performed to publish findings from the research and outreach efforts of the RREA project. There will be continued training for Extension staff and strengthening of partnerships for collaborative purposes that will extend the reach of the RREA program. Work will continue to be performed to address the other cross-cutting issues highlighted in the 5-yr Strategic Plan.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Workshops, seminars/webinars, demonstrations, expos and field days were again utilized to help individuals better understand and tackle renewable resource issues. These activities were implemented by six Urban Regional Extension Agents, two statewide Extension Specialists, and two Associate Professors representing ten counties. Several programs were conducted in FY 2018 addressing the overall goal of this five-year RREA project, which is to expand the delivery capacity of the Urban Environmental Science Education Program (UESeP). The One Health Symposium on Sheep and Goat Production provided education on the basic principles of environmental health, as well as forage and grazing management for sheep and goats to rangeland owners, natural resource professionals, and the general public. The event which was held in Orange Beach, Alabama engaged participants interactively and provided information on best management practices (BMPs) for soil and water quality, natural resource conservation for pasture and grazing management, and options that increase grazing efficiency and rangeland management. Landowners received a wide-range of research-based information concerning natural resource protection as it relates to rangelands, and were provided with resource publications from the Alabama Cooperative Extension System and neighboring Extension systems. Oral presentations were offered by a diverse group of speakers including an outdoor demonstration entitled "Best Management Practices for Soil and Water Quality and Natural Resource Conservation: Soil Health Demonstration Trailer with Rainfall Simulation by USDA-NRCS State Agronomist, Tibor Horvath. An oral presentation was also provided on USDA-NRCS program opportunities for sheep and goat grazers. Overall, participants were satisfied with the relevance of the information to their needs; 81% stated that they would adopt the BMPs learned. A series of sheep and goat health management workshops were also offered to rangeland owners throughout the state from March to May of 2018. The series offered educational information on forages and natural resource management. Workshop participants also traveled to local farms for on-farm site demonstrations. These were among the efforts to diversify programming and increase access to research findings on renewable resources to landowners. Sheep and goats raised under small acreage and semi-intensive management practices can exhibit lower production levels, higher maintenance costs, and/or higher mortality rates. Additionally, wet climate rangeland conditions typical of the Southeast U.S. promote conditions that can potentially reduce enterprise profitability. Four state-wide workshops focused on health management and biosecurity measures of sheep flocks and goat herds, and farm tours with hands-on demonstrations were conducted. A total of 100 producers mainly beginners, attended the workshop series. At the end of the series, a survey was implemented to determine impact. A total of 56 surveys were recovered represented by: 28 (50%) men, 28 (50%) women; 6 (11%) African-Americans, 49 (87%) Caucasians, 1 Native-American and 1 Asian. Results indicated that farm production focus varied as follows: goat producers 43 (76.8%), forest landowners 7 (12.5%), sheep producers 6 (10.7%), cattle producers 8 (14.3%); 5 participants (8.9%) raised poultry, swine and rabbits, and 2 participants (3.6%) provided no response. The majority of the participants were from Alabama [44 (79%)], followed by Georgia [5 (9%)], Tennessee [5 (9%)] and Florida [2 (3%)]. Results showed variability among the parameters assessed. Overall, the participants were very satisfied with the quality of the workshops and the on-farm demonstrations. These events were developed by Alabama Extension's Animal Science and Forages & Forestry, Wildlife & Natural Resource Management Teams in partnership with Tennessee State University.

Publications

• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2018 Citation: http://www.aces.edu/urban/onehealth/index.php
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2018 Citation: Digital Brochure http://www.aces.edu/urban/documents/OneHealthSymposiumSheepGoatDigitalBrochure_i.pdf
• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2018 Citation: https://news.aces.edu/blog/2018/02/26/extension-offers-statewide-health-management-workshops-for-sheep-and-goats/
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2018 Citation: Phillip Carter, Karnita Golson-Garner, Allyson Shabel, and Roosevelt Robinson. 2018. Implementation and Management of a Successful Electronic Waste Disposal Program. In Proceedings of the Association of Natural Resource Extension Professionals (ANREP) Biennial Conference, April 29-May 3, Biloxi, MS.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2018 Citation: Allyson Shabel, Karnita Golson-Garner, Phillip Carter, Jack Lecroy and Roosevelt Robinson. 2018. Development and Implementation of an Impactful Electronic Waste Disposal Program. In Proceedings of the NUEL Southern Region and 1890 Conference, August 13-15, Chattanooga, TN.
• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2018 Citation: https://www.nrcs.usda.gov/wps/portal/nrcs/eventdetail/al/newsroom/events/?cid=NRCSEPRD1411014

Progress 02/02/17 to 09/30/17

Outputs
Target Audience:The target audience was diverse including urban, rural and nontraditional audiences. It included landowners, foresters, natural resource professionals, producers, stakeholders, and the general public. It also included those who were economically and socially disadvantaged. Changes/Problems: Nothing Reported What opportunities for training and professional development has the project provided?Several forestry, wildlife and natural resource management planning meetings and trainings were held during the year to coordinate the activities of the RREA program and its implementation. The team also participated in a number of professional development opportunities; they included attendance at the National Urban Extension Conference on May 8-11, 2017 in Bloomington, MN; the Alabama Water Resources Conference and Symposium on September 7-8, 2017 in Orange Beach, AL; the AMRV RC&D Annual Meeting on October 26, 2017 in Guntersville, AL; the Emerging Contaminants in the Aquatic Environment Conference, May 31 through June 1, 2017 in Champaign, IL, and the North Alabama Emergency Preparedness Volunteer Symposium on March 2, 2017 in Huntsville, AL. These opportunities along with webinar trainings were used to seek out research-based solutions and gather new updates on conservation issues. How have the results been disseminated to communities of interest?Information and outcomes were disseminated and/or shared with communities of interest using radio, television, newsletters, magazines, and internet online. Extension findings were presented at local and national conferences, meetings, and symposiums. An oral presentation entitled "Camp Conservation...Taking It on the Road was presented at the 2017 National Urban Extension Conference on May 8-11, 2017 in Bloomington, MN. Exhibits showcasing natural resource conservation materials were setup at a number of events, including the Alabama Water Resources Conference and Symposium on September 7-8, 2017 in Orange Beach, AL. Information concerning programs were highlighted in local news casts and in local newspapers throughout the state. What do you plan to do during the next reporting period to accomplish the goals?The next reporting period will include the planning, coordination and implementation of new forums for advancing this RREA project. Work will be performed to publish findings from the research and outreach efforts of the RREA project. There will be continued training for Extension staff and strengthening of partnerships for collaborative purposes that will extend the reach of the RREA program. Work will also be performed to address the other cross-cutting issues highlighted in the 5-yr Strategic Plans as well as objectives 4 and 5.

Impacts
What was accomplished under these goals? Objective 1 As stated earlier, the primary goal of this five-year RREA project is to expand the delivery capacity of the Urban Environmental Science Education Program (UESeP). Workshops, seminars/webinars, demonstrations, expos and field days were utilized to help individuals better understand and tackle renewable resource issues. These activities were implemented by four Urban Regional Extension Agents, three statewide Extension Specialists, and two Associate Professors representing ten counties. Several programs were conducted in FY 2017; they are as follows: the Urban Living Expo: Plan, Prepare, Practice: Don't Get Caught off Guard When Disaster Strikes was held on March 25, 2017 from 10:30 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. in Huntsville, AL. The event targeted stakeholders, natural resource professionals, landowners and the general public, engaging them interactively and disseminating information about climate variability, disaster preparedness and disaster management. Participants interacted with weather experts, private and industry resource professionals, Extension agents and specialists, first responders and other service providers. They learned the importance of on-time disaster readiness and preparedness. Landowners received information concerning the impacts of disasters on natural resources and how to respond appropriately when such events occur. Examples included, recovering tornado and storm damaged forested land. "This is a wonderful event!" Dean Wilson, Participant at the Urban Living Expo, March 2017 Seminars were offered by a diverse group of speakers including local meteorologists and police officers. Topics included safety procedures for inclement weather; basic chainsaw safety and operation; and severe weather awareness and preparedness. There were a host of sponsors including, AAA Insurance, the National Weather Service, the Alabama's Mountains, Rivers and Valleys RC&D Council, the North Alabama Medical Reserve Corps, Prepare and Respond Disaster Relief, the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA), and Redstone Federal Credit Union. There were also over forty exhibitors including the Alabama Forestry Commission, the American Red Cross, Community Action Partnership of North Alabama, HEMSI/Emergency Management Services, Huntsville Hospital Mobile Medical Unit, Huntsville Police Department, and the Madison County Soil and Water Conservation District. Of the 78 participants surveyed demographics were as follows: 58% female and 42% male; 59% Caucasian, 24% African American, and 17% other. A comparison of those participants' before and after the event showed an increase in knowledge of disaster preparedness (3.25/4.12). Most of the participants learned of the event via word of mouth (48%) and social media (20%). Overall, participants were satisfied with the relevance of the information to their needs; 89% felt that implementing the learned practices could save lives, and 92% stated that they would implement the safety practices learned. Objectives 2 and 3 Efforts to diversify programming and increase access to research findings on renewable resources to landowners as well as to trained professionals evolved into the offering of a workshop that provided educational information and demonstrations on safety practices for tree removal, limbing, bucking and basic felling that was conducted on May 26, 2017 at the local Extension office in Ozark, AL. The workshop also covered basics, such as chainsaw starting, design and ergonomics. Fifty participants consisting of landowners, city workers and foresters attended the safety training. The participants were provided with landowner resource publications from the Alabama Forestry Commission and the Alabama Cooperative Extension System (ACES). Demonstrations were performed by an ISA Board Certified Master Arborist, TCIA Certified Treecare Safety Professional, with ISA Tree Risk Assessment experience. The participants (n=50) were very satisfied with the quality of the workshop and the demonstrations. Additionally a fall Forestry Field Day was conducted on October 20, 2017 in collaboration with the Elk Valley Forestry Association and the AAMU Department of Biological and Environmental Sciences. The field day took place at the Winfred Thomas Agricultural Research Station in Hazel Green, AL from 9:00 a.m. to noon. The program was multidisciplinary; providing educational information on pine agroforestry and the restoration of the American chestnut, shitake mushroom growth, rainwater conservation, and goat management in agroforestry by a host of University faculty and Extension Specialists. An array of research-based publications were also made available to the program participants. In general, the participants (n=51) were satisfied with the quality of the field day and stated that they would implement the best management practices (BMPs) learned. The team also participated in various activities and planning meetings throughout the year that focused on natural resource conservation including the ACF Mobile County Water Festival (March 14, 2017) in Mobile, AL.

Publications

• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2017 Citation: Wendi Williams, Karnita Garner and Robert Spencer. 2017. Are you ready? Alabama Extension to Hold Urban Living Expo on Disaster Preparedness March 25. Alabama Cooperative News Magazine. March 2017 http://www.alafarmnews.com/index.php/are-you-ready
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2017 Citation: Paul Okweye, Karnita Garner and Elica Moss. 2017. Assessment of pharmaceuticals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon pollutants in Flint Creek and the Flint River watersheds. In the Proceedings of the Emerging Contaminants in the Aquatic Environment Conference, May 31 -June 1, 2017, Champaign, IL.
• Type: Conference Papers and Presentations Status: Published Year Published: 2017 Citation: Denise Heubach. 2017. Camp Conservation&Taking It on the Road. In the Proceedings of the National Urban Extension Conference on May 8-11, 2017 in Bloomington, MN. https://sites.google.com/a/umn.edu/urbanextensionconference2017/Conference-program/sessions
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2017 Citation: Wendi Williams, Karnita Garner and Robert Spencer. 2017. Urban Living Expo: Plan, Prepare, Practice: Dont Get Caught off Guard When Disaster Strikes. Alabama Cooperative Extension System. file:///C:/Users/Karnita%20Garner/Downloads/ULE%20Program%202017.pdf
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2017 Citation: http://www.aces.edu/urban/documents/JD-urbanlivingexpo_2017brochure.pdf
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2017 Citation: http://whnt.com/2017/03/22/urban-living-expo-dont-get-caught-off-guard-when-disasters-occur/
• Type: Websites Status: Published Year Published: 2017 Citation: http://www.aces.edu/urban/living-expo/
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2017 Citation: https://aamu-mpr.smugmug.com/Urban-Living-Expo-2017/
• Type: Other Status: Published Year Published: 2017 Citation: http://www.al.com/living/index.ssf/2017/03/plan_prepare_practice_for_disa.html