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 While people identify with the loss of
large animals like bears, it is a much more difficult
challenge to help them understand how common species can
become rare. Forest habitat loss and fragmentation has
caused the decline of many plant and animal species in the
Lower Mississippi River Valley. In order to help these
species recover, it is crucial to help the public recognize
the significant threats to forest habitat. A group of public
and private organizations came together to develop an
interactive, multi-media CD-ROM “Black bears and Songbirds
of the Lower Mississippi River Valley” that includes video
clips, interactive maps, and quiz games to help stimulate
interest in forests and
 the wildlife that depends on them
for survival. The CD discusses the ecology of bears and
forest interior birds and forest loss and fragmentation in
the region. Many partners contributed their time, effort,
and funds to produce this CD, including the Black Bear
Conservation Committee, U.S.G.S. National Wetlands Research
Center, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, The Nature
Conservancy, Shell Marine Habitat Program, and the National
Fish and Wildlife Foundation.
Over 18,000 CD’s have been distributed free to educators at
schools, nature centers, and zoos throughout the region.
Teachers have responded extremely well, reporting that the
CD’s have been useful tools in their classrooms.
If you would like to
use this CD in your educational program, please email the
BBCC your name, address, and educational facility and we
will send you a free copy. Most computer systems today will
have no problem running the CD. Minimum system requirements
include MS Windows 3.x/95/98 or NT, Pentium 120 MHz,16 Megs
RAM, and 16 bit Video Card.
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