Connecting People and Nature in Florida
Our goal for science-based environmental education and training is to inspire and prepare the next generation of conservationists through inclusive and engaging learning environments. Providing access to on-the-ground and virtual educational experiences will help foster a deeper understanding of the critical role that nature plays in our everyday lives, and helps ensure future advocates for conserving our natural resources.
Our formal and informal conservation education and training programs are successfully providing valuable and impactful learning opportunities for K-12, college students, and natural resource professionals. These programs and activities provide opportunities to connect with TNC, experience nature and be inspired to step-up and speak-up for nature.
We seek to create an inclusive environment for all people and communities that will inform and expand their awareness and appreciation of nature. Feel free to browse our programs for educators, the community and watch our educational videos.
Community Conservation Programs
We offer a number of ways to get involved with educational opportunities, programs and activities such as shoreline clean-ups, sunrise sessions for artists and birders, virtual lectures and much more. New events and opportunities are always being added so check back for the latest happenings.
To have the latest information sent to your email inbox, we invite you to subscribe to our preserve e-newsletters for Blowing Rocks Preserve in South Florida, or The Disney Wilderness Preserve and Tiger Creek Preserve in Central Florida.
Upcoming Events for TNC in Florida
Environmental Resources for Educators
Nature Lab and Kahoot!
TNC and its scientists created Nature Lab to help students learn the science behind how nature works for us and how we can help keep it running strong.
Also explore our collection of interactive quizzes about prescribed fires, coral reefs, and more on Kahoot! All of our Kahoot quizzes can be used alongside Nature Lab videos to create a fun and interactive learning experience for students.
Traveling Turtles Trunk Program
In partnership with InWater Research Group, teachers in South Florida's Martin and Northern Palm Beach counties can bring FREE hands-on, experiential conservation education to their classrooms through the Traveling Turtles trunk program. The trunk contains four engaging lessons that take students on a journey through conservation while highlighting the amazing world of sea turtles. The trunk includes ready-made lessons for both in-person and virtual learning. For in-person instruction, all you need to do is copy student worksheets!
This program is a great introduction to the sea turtles of Florida. Students will learn about what makes a sea turtle a sea turtle, as well as nesting habits, how to sample a population like real scientists, and how to collect data from their very own sea turtle model.
This program can be incorporated into youth environmental education programs within the life science, natural science, or physical science disciplines.
- Skull replicas of the five sea turtles observed in Florida’s waters.
- Corresponding food item for each species.
- 10 individualized model turtles.
- 10 calipers.
- Measuring tapes.
- Lesson binder and jump drive.
- Plus, interactive videos!
- The trunk may only be picked up or dropped off at Blowing Rocks Preserve Wednesday through Saturday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.
- Trunk pickup and drop off require teachers to bring an additional person to assist with loading and unloading.
- Lesson plans have been modified and digitized to support social distancing in the classroom and distance learning.
- Trunks will be sanitized based on CDC regulations between each reservation.