Outdoor Science Education Program (OSEP)
Our Outdoor Science Education Programs provide nature-based outdoor education for thousands of children each year. Our programs focus on getting kids outside, where they learn about nature, art, Indigenous culture and how to responsibly recreate and become stewards of the land and waters around them. The programs are place-based at SNARL and Valentine Camp. All learning takes place outdoors and activities for different grade levels focus on nature-based knowledge and awareness through the lenses of art, traditional ecological knowledge, and exploration. Our programs aim to deepen the public understanding and appreciation of the Eastern Sierra and foster continued environmental stewardship of this ecologically and economically important region. The program is divided into school year field trips for elementary school children from all over Mono and Inyo Counties, weeklong summer ‘camps’, and after school programs.
Summer Programs
The summer programs focus on age-appropriate science concepts and are geared for the next school year’s age group. Registration for summer programs starts in March of each year.
After School Program
In spring we offer a 6-week afterschool program at SNARL called “Fireworks” focused on Fire Ecology. The program runs each Monday afternoon from March to April
School Year Field Trips
We provide age-appropriate, field-based learning opportunities at both Valentine Reserve and SNARL
Virtual Programs
Virtual programs can be accessed from anywhere, so students can participate no matter where they live.