One problem of great concern here in Arizona is that scientists project that the southwestern United States will become a “climate change hotspot” in the future. To lessen the impact of a warming climate on our communities, the Design Your Own Basin lesson provides students with a tangible way to cool outdoor spaces. Students learn to direct rainwater to created basins; optimal places to grow native plants. By planting a tree they increase shade and evapotranspiration in that area. This lesson can lead to students taking action in their own community by creating a passive rainwater harvesting systems that help mitigate increased heat.
What features and plants are optimum to help cool your community?
Design Your Own Basin
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