Throughout October, SEEAG piloted its new STEM Insect Lab in Ventura and Santa Barbara counties, giving students an exciting opportunity to explore the world of insects through hands-on science and discovery!
The pilot program introduced students to entomology, the study of insects, encouraging them to observe, ask questions, and explore the important roles insects play in our ecosystems and agricultural systems. Students became scientists themselves and examined these fascinating creatures up close using microscopes.
Thanks to a generous insect specimen donation from California State University Channel Islands, students had the opportunity to observe a variety of insects, including velvet ants, praying mantises, bees, butterflies, and more. With microscopes purchased through a generous donation from the Ventura Chapter of the California Association of Pest Control Advisers (CAPCA), students could magnify their specimens and examine insect anatomy in greater detail, gaining a deeper understanding of insect structures and adaptations.
Beyond the excitement of discovering new insects, the STEM Insect Lab helped students explore the important relationship between insects and agriculture. As farmers increasingly explore natural and sustainable approaches to pest management, understanding insects and their roles in agricultural ecosystems is more important than ever. Students learned how insects can benefit farms, how some species affect crops, and why understanding insect behavior is essential to managing agricultural pests.
By piloting the STEM Insect Lab in both counties, SEEAG continues to expand opportunities for students to engage with science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) through interactive, experiential education. Programs like this help students connect classroom learning to the natural world while inspiring the next generation of scientists, agricultural professionals, and environmental stewards.
SEEAG extends a heartfelt thank-you to the Ventura Chapter of CAPCA for its generous support of hands-on science education. We are especially grateful to Chapter President Ted Swartzbaugh and board member Lisa Fox for their support in helping make this learning experience possible. We also thank California State University Channel Islands for generously donating insect specimens that brought the world of entomology to life for students across both counties.
Through these partnerships, SEEAG continues to create meaningful opportunities for students to discover the connections between science, agriculture, and the environment.
