Benefits of Educational Signage at Joe Collin’s Park, Union, New Jersey

Anaya Milian-Cruz

Co-Presenters: Joel Pryor, Sofia King

College: The Dorothy and George Hennings College of Science, Mathematics and Technology

Major: Enviornmental Sciences

Faculty Research Mentor: Daniela Shebitz

Abstract:

In urban areas, green space serves as an important opportunity for the community to reconnect with nature, and to learn about the connections between human wellbeing and their environment. Educational signage can serve as a tool to assist the public understanding of environmental aspects of urban ecology such as native and non-native species. Joe Collin’s Park, Union, New Jersey, will have a new trail system through their collaboration with Groundwork Elizabeth. As an important first step, this project aims to educate the public on the flora and fauna located within the area. Through a senior capstone project, researchers designed a series of three educational signs to be installed along the park’s designated one mile walking path in the near future. Signage included both native and invasive species along with a scannable QR code that led to further information about the species and their impact or ecological role. The signage will cultivate better environmental awareness and will help to reinforce the idea that urban areas need better education programs widely available to these communities.