Environmental Education Programs

All programs begin with a discussion about what is a Wildlife Sanctuary, an explanation of the rules of the Trail, and what we will be doing during the program. All programs have an accompanying worksheet and last about 120 minutes. A large picnic area and restrooms are available, program fees range from $4 -- $6 per student, no charge for adults. These fees go directly back into our operation. Don't see what you need? Call us we can customize a program to better serve you. Scholarships available for Title 1 and 75% or more F/R lunch.

Colors and Shapes of Nature
Grades: Pre-K, K, 1
This ranger-guided program encompasses a short hike and a sit-down presentation. On the hike, children use a picture checklist to identify common natural items. During the sit-down presentation, students learn about plants native to northeast Florida and discover how animals may use these plants. Students also receive specimens of plants to use in counting, feeling and smelling.

Insects and Others
Grades: 1, 2, 3
This program starts out with a hike during which students view several insect habitats. After the hike, they visit an outdoor lab with six hands-on stations. These activities illustrate the basics of insect ecology, anatomy and behavior.

Wild Neighborhoods
Grades: 2, 3, 4, 5
By visiting different habitats at UNF we can compare and contrast the differences. This introduction to Ecology focuses on examples of how plants and animals interact and make a living in different habitats. Sites include a shallow lake margin, seepage slope, thicket, cypress swamp, Sandhill, and a "mystery."

Plant Adaptations
Grades: 3, 4, 5, 6
During a one mile hike student will observe plants growing in their natural habitats. We discuss what physical and/or physiological adaptations allow plants to thrive in challenging environments. The lab activity includes examining a carnivorous plant and a seed dispersal activity.

Ecology
Grades 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8
On this 1.5 mile hike, students will observe various examples of symbiotic relationships; mutualism, parasitism and commensalism. In addition, they will take measurements in several habitats and determine their relative biological diversities.

Nature’s Detectives
Grades 5, 6, 7, 8, 9

Students work in small teams to collect data and discover who created the tracks in the sand box. We discuss identification, various habitats, gait patterns, conservation of energy and presentation skills.