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Through the Canopy

Activity

Estimating Tree Cover

Estimate the tree cover in different areas of the Park by measuring the percentage of the sky blocked by trees. Use a clear petri dish or container lid divided into quadrants (4 sections). Hold the lid up to the sky and look through it. Use a marker to outline the tree cover visible within the divided section, then estimate the percentage of the forest floor that is shaded by trees. Repeat this in several locations to compare tree cover and shading across different ecosystems!

Science Seed

Trees are important for our environment. Through photosynthesis, they create oxygen and absorb carbon dioxide (CO₂), helping to clean the air and reduce climate change impacts. Measuring tree cover in different park areas shows us how much shade trees provide, which can cool the ground, protect soil, and create comfortable habitats for wildlife. The shade from tree canopies also supports diverse plant and animal life, as well as offers food like fruits and nuts for both animals and humans.

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earn Badges

Badges can be earned through hands-on experiences within each of the 16 branches of science, or “Science Slices.” You can earn a badge in each branch of science by doing four activities in these categories. We also encourage participants to keep a Nature Journal to record their memories, and to express themselves creatively through writing or drawing after each activity. We recommend that each child (and parent if they’d like) write or draw in a journal after each activity, with expectations of your children that match their age (the goal is self-expression, not perfection).

Explore the Memorial Park Conservancy

The mission of Memorial Park Conservancy is to preserve, restore, and enhance Memorial Park for the enjoyment of all Houstonians, today and tomorrow.

join Families in Nature

It is our vision to inspire all families to fall in love with nature and foster the next generation of conservationists. Becoming a member of Families in Nature will give your family the opportunity to have adventures in nature, experience field science, develop as youth conservation leaders, and make memories that will last a lifetime. Memberships are free for everyone.

Who are we?

Families in Nature works to create opportunities for nature connection with the purpose of sparking a deep love and desire to protect, conserve and restore the environment. Our mission is to connect children and their families to nature and to each other through time spent learning, playing, and volunteering outdoors. It is our vision to inspire ALL families to fall in love with nature and foster the next generation of conservationists.

This project was made possible by