1. Maria Balcarcel & Brennan Moyer

2. History Of Nolde Forest Nolde Forest State Park was born when when hosiery baron Jacob Nolde acquired this area in the early 1900s. Inspired by a single white pine (which was growing in the middle of vegetation) Nolde hired an Austrian forester to create a coniferous forest. As the plantations grew they formed a luxury forest, which became a source of family pleasure and pride.

3. Nolde Forest continues to provide outdoor opportunities for visitors. The PA Commonwealth purchased the property in the late 1960s. In 1970, federal program grants and the Berks County Intermediate Unit helped establish Nolde Forest as the first environmental education center operated by the Bureau of State Parks. “Nolde Forest Education Center is committed to environmental education and interpretation”

4. Biodiversity https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=QJZRiZmrPjI

5. Biodiversity -the variety of life in the world or a specific ecosystem. -Biodiversity increases the stability and resilience of communities and ecosystems. - Decreased biodiversity reduces a natural system’s ability to function and provide services to our society.

6. Threats to Biodiversity -General threats to biodiversity may include human activity, population growth, climate change, habitat urbanization, invasive species, and exploitation of natural resources. -The main threats to the biodiversity of Nolde Forest are natural disasters, invasive species, and human activity.

7. Threats to Biodiversity: Natural Disasters -In 2012, Hurricane Sandy’s high winds knocked over a large portion of spruce trees in Nolde Forest. -Although this did not destroy the park, the main concern was what would grow back in their place. -Anytime there is a disturbance the plant community re-establishes itself, It doesn't start off with the same species as before.

8. Threats to Biodiversity: Invasive Species -An invasive species is any plant or animal introduced (not native) into an ecosystem. -These invasive plants or animals will cause harm to the native plants and animals by encroaching on their food supply and habitat. -To prevent the spread of invasive species it is crucial to conserve and plant native species in the affected area.

9. Threats to Biodiversity: Invasive Species -Japanese stilt grass has made the most noticeable appearance, especially along trail edges. -The grass is known to spread rapidly after flooding or mowing, and within a few years begins to crowd out native vegetation.

10. Threats to Biodiversity: Human Activity -Over-exploitation, pollution and habitat conversion are the main threats caused by humans. -The ever-growing tendencies of tourism, transport, profit-oriented food production. -Global warming and population growth continually increase these pressures on biodiversity.

11. Threats to Biodiversity: Human Activity -The goal of the Nolde Forest Education Center is to educate the public so they will begin to see the benefits of preservation. -If the public is educated about the adverse effects of certain human activities…they are less likely to continue theses activities.

12. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KFYDlTr3Lws

13. Community Action We took action at Nolde Forest by volunteering our time to aid in the education of both children and adults. On our first visit we participated in a pond exploration, which aimed to explain aquatic wildlife and their role in the ecosystem. On our second visit we participated in a nest study, which aimed to showcase that birds are not the only creature who use and make nests.