Forest Ecology + Field Skills + Camp = An Amazing Experience!

Mar 6, 2018

Forest Ecology + Field Skills + Camp = An Amazing Experience!

Mar 6, 2018

Project Learning Tree California logo
As a 4-H leader participating in the 2018 California 4-H Camping Conference, you can sign up for one, two or three sessions of the Project Learning Tree (PLT) Camp Conference Track to:

  • Explore current issues
  • Investigate as a forester
  • Engage in field studies

These sessions will inspire you to create your own version of Project Learning Tree that will enhance the unique adventures of 4-H summer camp.

Building on the support of the American Forest Foundation, UC Cooperative Extension, and CA Project Learning Tree, we are working together to introduce and integrate PLT ideas and activities into 4-H Programs. Our goal is to integrate forest ecology and field skills into the amazing experience of summer camps all over California.

Sign up for one, two, or all three sessions

Participants in each session will receive an activity folder with ideas and resource materials.

If you attend all three sessions, you will receive a free K-8 Project Learning Tree Guide with over 90 activities.

Youth examining leaves and seeds from trees.

PLT Session I: California Naturalist

Participants will explore the amazing forest environment through Project Learning Tree activities and learn strategies to integrate naturalist explorations into the 4-H Camp experience. Some favorite activities we will engage in…Looking at Leaves, The Fallen Log, Every Tree for Itself….and make a clay leaf print to take home!

Being a Naturalist/ nature journaling/ leaf prints:

  1. Looking at Leaves
  2. Fallen Log
  3. Every Tree for Itself

Making relief shadings of bark of tree

PLT Session II: Forest Steward

Participants will learn how to take action as citizen stewards. Hike into the forest and observe what makes this environment so uniquely essential for a healthy California. Learn how to map a field study area using basic tools and design a field investigation through inquiry study. And learn what opportunities are out there to connect with community efforts, engage in studies with researchers, and initiate action in your own 4-H Camps and local communities.  

      Working the tools/ actions for Citizen Science and Stewardship:

  1. Trees As Habitats
  2. Soil Stories
  3. How Big is Your Tree

PLT Session III: Forestry Challenge!

Participants will be engaged in several forestry investigations to understand how foresters manage and ensure healthy forests. Each investigation will lead to team work, exploration, and ultimately the Forestry Challenge! We will show you how to design an exciting and fun challenge for your camp program!

      Challenge your skills and knowledge:

  1. How Big is Your Tree II
  2. Trees in Trouble
  3. Living with Fire

 

Forester demonstrating tools used

Developed by the PLT Camp Program Development Committee

The PLT Camp Program Development Committee is responsible for the design, development and delivery of enhanced Project Learning Tree training and materials in 4-H Camp programming. Their goal is the integration of selected PLT field based activities, focused on the ecology of CA forests, into existing camp programs resulting in strengthened environmental based learning for camp participants.

Learn more about Project Learning Tree in California! Contact Sandra Derby at stderby@ucanr.edu with any questions.

 

PLT CA 40th logo

 

Sign up for the California 4-H Camping Conference!

2018 California 4-H Camping Conference
April 6 - 8, 2018
Redwood Glen Camp
100 Wright Drive, Loma Mar, CA 94021

REGISTER by March 23

The 2018 California 4-H Camping Conference brings together the adults and teen leaders who help plan and administer camping programs across California in a weekend of hands-on training, networking, and learning experiences.

The California 4-H Camping Conference is held every other year. Don't miss this great learning opportunity to make the best camps better!

*You do not have to be part of a 4-H Camp to participate. Please contact Marianne Bird at mbird@ucanr.edu if you are not a current 4-H member or volunteer.