Environmental Schools are a fun, practical and economical approach to obtain a basic environmental education. Local garden clubs, councils, districts, State Garden Clubs or Region sponsor a series of four courses of 10 hours each. These classes investigate, challenge and explore all aspects of the environment with a focus on the interrelationships of plants, animals, insects and people. The goal is to maintain and renew an energy efficient and sustainable environment. Each course includes a 2-hour field trip. Tours may include natural areas, power or recycling plants, nature centers, sustainable architecture or boat trips to explore aquatic eco-systems.

Environmental School Course Content

 ·      Course 1 The Living Earth - An Overview and Introduction: Ecology, Plants - Biodiversity, Environmental Science, Environmental Issues, Backyard and Wildlife Habitat, Networking and Outreach, Historic Environmental Actions and Leaders, Sustainability

·      Course 2 The Living Earth - Land and Related Issues: Ecology - Land, Plants - Agriculture, Source Reduction of Pollutants, Toxics and Materials, Coastal Zone Management, Environmental Resources, Wildlife - Animals -The Misunderstoods, Gardening with Nature

·      Course 3 The Living Earth - Air: Ecology - Air, Plants - Rain Forest, Environmental Ethics, Environmental Science - Pollution, Wildlife - Endangered Plants and Wildlife, Initiating Schools Programs, Earth Stewardship, Material Sources and Citizen Education Programs

·      Course 4 The Living Earth - Water: Ecology - Water, Plants - Aquatic Plants, Environmental Science, Sustainability, Wildlife - Aquatic Animals, Youth Programs in Environmental Education, Earth Stewardship - Effective Citizenship