[photo credit: Descanso Gardens]
According to the U.S. Department of Agriculture, more than one-third of all food crops depend on pollinators, and bee populations in California have declined by nearly 50% over the last decade.
The workshop combines scientific observation with artistic expression through activities including birdwatching, insect tracking, planting, nature journaling, and visual mapping. Educational leaders will facilitate data-gathering exercises that connect participants with regenerative landscape practices, which help reverse habitat loss and mitigate climate risks.
This event is part of the larger CULTIVATE series at Descanso Gardens, designed to enhance environmental awareness through multisensory, hands-on learning. The series includes recurring programs throughout the year, making this one of many opportunities for community engagement.
Located at 1418 Descanso Drive in La Cañada Flintridge, the event serves the greater Pasadena area and is designed for families, youth, and educators looking for meaningful educational experiences.
The workshop aligns with Pasadena’s Urban Wildlife Management Plan and City Greening Initiatives. This connection is especially relevant as LA County has observed an average temperature increase of 2.3°F since 1950, contributing to shifts in local bird and insect populations, according to the UCLA Institute of the Environment and Sustainability Climate Assessment from 2022.
Participants will learn about regenerative gardening principles, which emphasize soil health, biodiversity, and sustainable land management. These practices not only support healthier ecosystems but also lead to more resilient plant growth and reduced reliance on chemical inputs.
The program supports the California Department of Food and Agriculture’s Pollinator Protection Plan, launched in 2018, which emphasizes habitat restoration in urban areas as a key strategy for protecting pollinators.
The event reflects a growing pedagogical movement that integrates STEM with the arts (STEAM), promoting accessibility and cognitive development in environmental education. This educational approach aligns with Pasadena Unified School District’s environmental education modules integrated into its science curriculum, which supports field-based observational learning.
Though Descanso Gardens is located in La Cañada Flintridge, its mission and programming connect with other Pasadena-area environmental initiatives, including Arlington Garden, the Arroyo Seco, and the Pasadena Community Gardens.
The workshop exemplifies the fusion of scientific inquiry, environmental stewardship, and public engagement. It offers residents a tactile, reflective opportunity to address pressing ecological issues through both education and creativity.
Descanso Gardens, 1418 Descanso Drive, La Cañada Flintridge. (818) 949-4200. www.descansogardens.
