Chastity Gloyd

Gloyd's "Protecting the Chesapeake Through Erosion Control" program gives students the opportunity to learn firsthand the value of environmental stewardship. Students in the program participate in a two-day workshop and work with conservationists to study different soil varieties, causes of erosion, and various erosion control methods. After conducting Internet research on effective erosion control tools, students identify an affected area and conduct a site analysis, including scientific measurements of soil type, land slope, temperature, pH and soil nutrients. Students then create a PowerPoint presentation detailing their own erosion control plans. Culmination of the project for students includes the writing of a grant application for funds to implement their erosion control plans. Teaching students how to identify and address a real-life environmental problem, the program is designed to strengthen individual awareness and responsibility for the environment.