According to the United State Environmental Protection Agency, “environmental education is a process that allows individuals to explore environmental issues, engage in problem solving, and take action to improve the environment. As a result, individuals develop a deeper understanding of environmental issues and have the skills to make informed and responsible decisions.”   The Campbell County Extension Agent for Natural Resources and Environmental Management provides field trips at the Environmental Education Center that address Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS).

This fall’s field trips began with an overview of the Cooperative Extension Service’s environmental education programs for Northern Kentucky University’s Environmental Careers Course (16 students). Students commented afterwards, “Environmental education is such an important job to inform the general public that do not have an in-depth understanding of the natural environment around them and how teach people to more in touch with the environment, to preserve and protect it.” “The most important skill (of an environmental educator) is the ability to communicate effectively to all audiences.”

A class of nine, 7^th grade students learned how to use dichotomous keys to identify trees and all about their utilization including foods and medicines. Twelve, 3^rd grade classes with 240 students from five schools participated in ecosystem studies field trips and learned about Kentucky’s native plants and animals through the concept of interdependency. 28, 4th grade classes with 595 students from 12 schools participated in fall environmental day camps and learned about energy transfer from sun to producers, consumers, and decomposers by studying plant and animal structures, functions, and behavior, including humans’ use of solar energy. Teaches evaluated the field trips and provided testimonials.

"I’ve been taking my students on this field trip for over ten years, and that speaks volumes for how helpful it is for my students and our goals. My students learn how to use a field guide and then put it to use as they see these trees in their natural environments. This hands on approach is more exciting and having a real experience allows students to process the information in a better way. Students are also made aware of the need to protect and care for our environment by being at the Center." - St. Catherine School 7th grade teacher in Fort Thomas.

3^rd grade teachers from Moyer Elementary School in Fort Thomas commented, “It brings together science with our social studies focus on Kentucky. “This environmental education program allows the 3^rd grade students to apply their learning and knowledge of ecosystems to Kentucky ecosystems.” “Mr. Scully is an expert at what he does. He was interesting, fun & funny, as well as in control of the large group!” – Woodfill Elementary School 3^rd grade teacher in Fort Thomas.

A 4^th grade teacher from Crossroads Elementary School in Cold Spring indicated, “The lessons aligned well with our 4^th grade NGSS (adaptations, plants parts, energy transfers).” All teachers agreed, “Each activity fits perfectly into the 4^th grade NGSS.” “Students remember these hands-on lessons all year long.” – Campbell Ridge Elementary School 4^th grade teachers in Alexandria. “Being emerged in nature, seeing live animals up close, and conducting experiments builds amazing skills.” – Johnson Elementary School 4^th grade teacher in Fort Thomas. “We love this field trip every year! This trip brings science to life.” – Grant’s Lick 4^th grade teacher in Grant’s Lick. “Loved the way the presenters talked to the students and involved them.” – St. Mary’s School 4^th grade teacher in Alexandria. “I heard one of my students say that this was the best field trip ever.” – St. Thomas School 4^th grade teacher in Fort Thomas.