League program brings 1,200 students to local redwood forests each year
As fourth grade students get off the bus at Humboldt Redwoods State Park, the excitement of being on a field trip in the redwoods fills the air. You hear laughter, high-pitched shrieks, and lots of, “Oh my, those trees are so tall!” Throughout the day, students explore, learn, and have fun in an old-growth forest. They learn about the redwood habitat surrounding them, identify plants, and participate in a “solo sit,” during which they find a quiet spot to write, draw, or just be. Students might also touch a banana slug, glimpse a deer, or listen for the calls of birds.
This free forest experience is provided to students and schools throughout Humboldt County as part of the League’s North Coast Education Program. For seven years now, this program has brought more than 1,200 students to a local redwood forest each year.
“Although the students in Humboldt are surrounded by redwood forests, they get to experience the trees in a new way on these field trips. Being outside with classmates, hiking, exploring, taking in the stillness of the forest—this is what makes these trips so memorable for them,” says Deborah Zierten, the League’s senior manager of education and interpretation.
During field trips, students also conduct scientific investigations of the redwood ecosystem. They measure trees and ferns, survey plant life, and document the living things they see around them. “By incorporating real scientific research into the trip, students understand that they can be scientists and contribute to the conservation of these forests,” says North Coast Education Program manager, Michael Kauffmann.
In a recent survey, participants overwhelmingly said they wanted to return to the park with their families after the field trip. The students also said they recognized the importance of protecting the forest and thought of these trees as part of their community. And when asked what their favorite part of the day was, many students answered, “EVERYTHING!”
Our North Coast Education Program is just one way the League continuously connects people to the peace and beauty of the redwoods to instill a sense of awe and convey the importance of forest conservation. We are excited to highlight this program through our new video (above). Check it out and see the impact that time in the redwoods can have on the next generation.
3 Responses to “Free outdoor ed for Humboldt County schools”
Olivia
As a 6th grader living in SF Bay Area I had the privilege of going to a weeklong camp near La Honda. We were immersed in the forest. We had to choose one plant and do a small research demonstration. I chose the giant Redwood. I returned to the camp as a counselor in high school. My love of the costal redwoods has lasted all these 40 plus years. This is why I support Save the Redwoods cause. These trees have impacted me my entire life. I can’t say enough how happy I am this organization has become their stewards.
Pat Smith
Please offer this program to Anderson Valley (CA) Elementary School. They are located about 5 miles from Hendy Woods old growth redwood forest. Phone 707-895-3010
Patricia Daskivich
Outstanding that the Save the Redwoods League is getting children involved in direct experiences with the redwoods. Congratulations to whoever initiated this in the North Coast Education Program and to Michael Kauffman and to Deborah Zierten! In my teaching career I had initiated nationwide projects for children in the arts: writing, music, art, and in photography, I am happy that this love of nature program exists for children, for they are our future who will continue to get involved!