07/20/2026
Each summer, we partner with the North MS RC&D Council and MDEQ to host a fourday teacher workshop. This year’s theme, “Roots for a Better Tomorrow,” highlighted a different natural resource concern each day, giving educators handson experiences and practical tools to bring back to their classrooms.
Monday’s session focused on wildlife. Bret Sanders from the Extension Service introduced the wide variety of wildlife found in Mississippi. Master Gardener Reba Wright explained the habitats, diets, and conservation of Mississippi’s native butterflies. Cathy from the Tate County SWCD presented the Critter Scene Investigator program, guiding participants through an owl pellet dissection to explore barn owl habitat and diet.
Tuesday’s session focused on water conservation. Deb Veeder from AdoptAStream taught participants about the water cycle, point and nonpoint source pollution, and how aquatic organisms indicate water quality. She then led a field activity at Chromcraft Lake, where attendees collected water samples and searched for aquatic insects. Deb also used the EnviroScape Model to demonstrate how pollution moves through a watershed. Cathy Tarver from the Tate County SWCD followed with the Fred the Fish program, illustrating the effects of pollution on waterways through Fred’s journey.
Wednesday’s session focused on healthy soils. Participants visited Spirit Hill Farm in Holly Springs, MS, where they learned about the farm’s history, its research collaboration with the Mississippi State Extension Service, and observed several NRCS Best Management Practices in person. The farm, owned by Mrs. Sheryl Bowen and managed by her grandson Adam Nathan, reflects their strong commitment to preserving and improving the land for future generations. Michael Richard, MS NRCS Area Resource Soil Scientist, led a soilsampling activity and explained fundamental soil science concepts for teachers to take back to their classrooms.
Thursday’s session focused on Mississippi plants and forestry. Cathy Tarver from the Tate County SWCD led the “Tops and Bottoms” activity and skit, which taught participants about vegetable farming by sorting crops based on whether they grow above or below ground, followed by a relay race. Temple Harrison from the Mississippi Forestry Commission provided detailed information on wildfires in Mississippi, including their causes, prevention, and the methods used to extinguish them. Donna Gandy of the Marshall County SWCD shared her plant expertise while guiding participants through the parts of a tomato plant. She also provided sweet potato vine, air plant, and wandering jew seedlings for participants to transplant and take back to their classrooms. Jonathan Smith from the Mississippi Forestry Association concluded the day with engaging, handson activities from Project Learning Tree that strengthened participants’ understanding and appreciation of trees. His expertise and interactive teaching style made for an energetic finish to the workshop.
A huge thank you to all our presenters, sponsors, and donors, to Spirit Hill Farm for hosting our field day, and to the Senatobia School District for providing their facility. We could not have achieved this level of success without your support. THANK YOU!!!!
