UC Cooperative Extension works with a wide range of collaborators to advance the field of Forestry and Natural Resources. Core to these efforts are preparing future professionals for the management challenges they will face in the years to come.
Forestry Curriculum Resources
Hands-on, interdisciplinary curriculum supports students in exploring the value of forests, environments, wildlife, water, air, energy, waste, climate change, invasive species, community planning, and more. These lessons empower students to think critically about the state’s forests and explore future career opportunities in natural resource management. Natural resource-focused curricula provide accessible, adaptable and approachable entry-points for educators to incorporate forestry education into their teaching practice.
Forestry Institute for Teachers
The Forestry Institute for Teachers (FIT) is a free residential program offered to Kindergarten through 12th grade educators in California. FIT brings educators into an immersive, week-long field experience with topic-specific training about California’s forest ecosystems, human use of natural resources and environmental education curriculum. The knowledge, skills and tools provided enable educators to effectively teach about forest ecology and forest resource management practices while adopting Next-Generation Science Standards (NGSS) through Project Learning Tree (PLT) and Project WILD. FIT curriculum and sessions are directed by teams of University of California Cooperative Extension (UCCE) Natural Resources/Forestry Advisors and highly qualified K-12 education professionals. To learn more about FIT, contact airoughton@ucanr.edu
Project Learning Tree
Project Learning Tree is a national curriculum which uses hands on environmental curricula to improve students' understanding of the environment. In California, UC Cooperative Extension hosts PLT in collaboration with CalFire's Urban Forestry Program. By helping develop students’ awareness, knowledge, and appreciation of the environment, Project Learning Tree builds their skills and ability to make informed decisions. To learn more about PLT or sign up for a workshop, contact the California State Coordinators.