Ryan J. Bache, a 6^th Grade teacher at Crestview Preparatory School, has been awarded a fellowship by the Earthwatch Institute. Mr. Bache will travel internationally on scholarship in July 2013 to study Climate Change and Caterpillars in Ecuador, and his fellowship will require that he join Earthwatch in a time-critical mission to assist with conservation and research.

Earthwatch Institute engages people worldwide in scientific field research and education to promote the understanding and action necessary for a sustainable environment. Each year, thousands of Earthwatch volunteers participate in expeditions and assist scientists by collecting data on climate change, ocean ecosystems, sustainable resource management, and sustainable cultures. (Earthwatch Institute, 2013)

Explore the fascinating world of caterpillars to see how they protect themselves

and respond to changes in their habitats.

 Bache will work with Principal Investigator Dr. Lee Dyer and a team of researchers to find and collect caterpillars and their host plants. In an open-air laboratory, the team will raise caterpillars at all stages of their life cycles and record their relationships with plants and parasites. When not unrolling leaves in search of telltale caterpillar signs or labeling specimens in the lab, Mr. Bache will enjoy striking views of the cloud-covered Andes, scan the trees in the neighboring Antisana Reserve for some of Ecuador’s over 1,550 bird species, and chat with other researchers staying at the station.

While on expedition, the elementary educator will update a daily blog with journal entries and photographs as he shares his experiences and findings with his school community. Upon his return to Los Angeles, Mr. Bache will propose and spearhead a community action project inspired by his field experience and enhanced understanding of the effects of climate change.

“I am honored to be selected as a 2013 fellow by the Earthwatch Institute, and I am looking forward to undertaking this research assignment and then applying my knowledge to the classroom and our greater community.”