Fort Ord Natural Reserve

01 Apr, 01 PM - 01 Apr, 01 PM

In collaboration with CSUMB Return of the Natives (RON) program, we will host kindergarten and first grade classes from all Marina elementary schools. Staff and interns visited each classroom prior to field trips in order to meet students and provide an overview of what they might expect to see at the reserve. In-class activities included an art project that helps university staff measure nature and science knowledge before and after the trip. Classes were then brought to the reserve by bus, which is just a few minutes drive from their schools. Parents of the students are also encouraged to attend. Once at the reserve, students are led on a short hike to visit stations where undergraduates teach them about a variety of Natural History topics. Funding for busses is provided by the UCSC Reserves as public schools are not always able to pay for transportation. Kids learn about insects, mammals, reptiles, and birds from university students and reserve staff. For some of these students, this is their first exposure to a hands-on learning activity focused on science in the outdoors - their enthusiasm is infectious. Nature Detectives served approximately 500 elementary students and community members this year. This program was started in 2013 and we plan to continue the program next year. In addition to helping the public school students, this event is a great way for university students to gain valuable teaching experience.

Visit #86594 @Fort Ord Natural Reserve

Approved

Under Project # 27310 | Public Use

Nature Detectives k-3rd grade program

reserve_staff - University of California, Santa Cruz

Reservation Members(s)

Joe Miller Apr 1, 2023 (1 days)
Nancy Vielmas Apr 1, 2023 (1 days)
Group of 460 K-12 Student Apr 1, 2023 (1 days)
Group of 60 Volunteer Apr 1, 2023 (1 days)
Group of 12 K-12 Instructor Apr 1, 2023 (1 days)

Reserve Resources(s) | Create Invoice

DAY USE ONLY - NO FACILITIES 532 Apr 1 (0 hours)