Based on the success of the Warren Ferris Cemetery restoration project, the Constellation of Living Memorials Pilot Program was developed to expand greenspaces, repair pollinator populations, enhance climate resiliency, lower heat island index, teach about the natural environment, build awareness, and grow communities through accessibility to nature. The scope of the project includes 8 cemeteries in Dallas: Beeman, Carver, Ferris, Glover, Oakland, Oak Cliff, Persimmon Rd, and Western Heights cemeteries. Activities will include:
- Field Research: Sites will need bio-surveys for flora and fauna identification and determination of plant density, using iNaturalist and collaborating with AgriLife on data collection techniques to upload into the Texas A&M research portal for analysis.
- Public Outreach: Neighborhood/community events, where volunteers lead groups of all ages on tours of the wildlife habitats, providing hands-on experiences and education.
- Educational Talk: We have begun an educational partnership with the Alex Sanger Prep school across the street from the Warren Ferris Cemetery Wildlife Habitat and master naturalists are providing educational experiences for the children, parents, and teachers.
- Wildscape Maintenance: creating and maintenance of wildscapes and interpretive areas
- Natural Resource Management: development of a restoration plan, including identification of native plants to be reintroduced for biodiversity enhancement, invasive removal, and a two-year planting/seeding schedule.
2024 Activities – 45 volunteers with 1,102 hours of service performed
- Volunteers participated in field research, wildscape/facility maintenance, natural resource management, public outreach, and educational talks