Our program attempts to integrate research with outreach and education. Waste is an important threat to humans and animals in the system. Our educational program incorporates research results into action. Here, children in our conservation and education program participate in a trash pick up day! They had a wonderful time and also contribute to a culture of change where ecosystem function and service is identified and valued. We need to work to sustain those services and the health of the ecosystem, and ultimately the health of the  humans and animals that depend on and are affected by the ecosystem.