The Oregon Garden Natural Resources Education Program (OGNREP) provides 4th-6th grade students an opportunity to discover the importance of Oregon’s natural resources and learn about forests, wetlands and wildlife in our area.
The Oregon Forest Resources Institute and Oregon Garden Foundation have partnered to bring this educational opportunity to Oregon school children. Our goal is to help students understand how natural resources contribute to our quality of life by utilizing our wetland habitat and the Rediscovery Forest – both amazing, hands-on places for learning.
The funds supporting the OGNREP cover the cost of the program, school bus transportation, admission and program fees. Field trips and requested funds are awarded on a first-come, first-served basis, and an online program request form is required.
Contact Information by Grade
While this program specifically caters to students 4th through 6th grade, The Oregon Garden is committed to furthering the education of students of all ages. Please contact the appropriate department below, based on your student’s age range:
- 4th-6th grade students, served by the Oregon Garden Natural Resources Education Program
- Complete the program request form or contact Rikki Heath, heath@ofri.org
- 9th-12th grade students, High School programs available on request
- Contact Julie Woodward, woodward@ofri.org
Oregon Garden Natural Resources Education Program Details
Cost $3 per student, teachers and chaperones are FREE
Program is partially funded by the Oregon Forest Resources Institute and Oregon Garden Foundation. The funding enables the Oregon Garden Natural Resource Education Program to offer engaging educators and take home supplies for the students. Transportation reimbursement is available; an online program request form must be submitted.
Availability
The Oregon Garden Natural Resources Education Program is open to the public and reserved on a first come, first served basis. Most groups arrange their field trip several months in advance, and spring is our busiest season. To enhance the experience, programs are limited to three classrooms per day.
The Oregon Garden contains many trails to explore, many of them ADA accessible. We also have several restroom facilities, drinking fountains and a covered area. All programs occur rain or shine.
Logistics
The program typically takes four hours to complete; this includes a half hour for lunch. Hands-on, science based lessons average 60-90 minutes long. Program time is flexible based on travel schedules.
The sessions may cover two or three of the topics listed below. Visits may take place throughout the school year, however, winter months are not highly recommended. We have a classroom or covered picnic area available, your students should bring a bagged lunch for full day programs. We request a minimum of one chaperone for every five students. Students must be accompanied by adults at all times.
Registration
Participants must submit a program request form. Registration is only available online. After a review of your application, participants will be contacted with details of their trip. All participants receive an electronic packet with a confirmation letter and additional information. Please notify staff of any special requirements your group may have.
Lesson Descriptions
The grade ranges listed with each lessons below are suggestion based on previous experience. If a lesson sounds suited to your needs but is out of your grade range, just let us know. We frequently add of adjust lessons to meet individual classroom needs. If your group has a topic that you would like to cover but do not see it listed, we may be able to accommodate the request. The education staff has experience and knowledge in natural resources and environmental education; they reserve the right to modify lessons based on availability and appropriateness.