Find Your Way in Nature Series: A Regenerative Waystation Model for Youth Sustainable Agriculture

Commodities

Practices

This project engages youth in
regenerative agriculture by transforming an existing garden bed
into a standards-based pollinator waystation using soil-building
practices inspired by hugelkultur, compost cycling, and native
habitat design. Youth learn through site assessment, phased
installation, habitat health monitoring, and multi-season
ecological observation. The innovation lies in integrating
conservation habitat and food-producing systems to demonstrate
ecosystem services within a farm context. By piloting and
documenting this Regenerative Waystation model, the project offers
a structured, adaptable framework for educators seeking to teach
soil health, habitat health, and sustainable agriculture through
hands-on, systems-based learning.

• Increase regenerative
  agriculture knowledge of approximately 20 youth through hands-on
  installation of a pollinator waystation and avian habitat
  monitoring within a farm.

• Demonstrate ecological soundness
  by teaching soil-building practices, perennial native plant
  systems, and habitat health tracking as indicators of farm
  stability.

• Explore economic viability
  through farmer-led discussions and optional participation in
  direct-to-market experiences, illustrating how pollination and soil
  health support sustainable revenue.

• Strengthen understanding of land
  stewardship through land stewardship, habitat restoration, and
  youth leadership. Youth will share outcomes with the local
  residnets and complete surveys to evaluate learning.