Project
Los Padillas Elementary School
Visitor's Centers and Schools
The Los Padillas Elementary School Constructed Wetland and Outdoor Classroom project represents a unique collaboration effort to develop a four-acre site adjacent to the school into an ecology study area and wildlife sanctuary. A constructed wetland was designed to treat the school’s wastewater, and an aquatic study pond offers daily opportunities for classes to collect samples and study pond organisms. The project has received international attention and publication.
Boulders and red sandstone benches along with flagstone paving were used for the small pond gathering space. This area is used by small groups who come to observe aquatic life and to collect water samples and zooplankton. The main outdoor classroom structure is removed from the pond so they do not to disturb wildlife. Trails constructed of stabilized crusher fines connect the pond with the outdoor classroom shelter.
http://horizon.nmsu.edu/kids/expert/lospadillas.html
http://www.headsuplandscape.com/plant/home/story.php
http://www.ecoschools.com/Water/Water_wSidebar.html