2nd National Extension Nat Res Conference-Abstract 14

Sanford "Sandy" Smith, Penn State Forest Resources Extension, Natural Resources and Youth Program, 7 Ferguson Building, University Park, PA 16802; 814.863.0401; sss5@psu.edu

Pennsylvania?s ?School Forest Stewardship Program? is a pilot outreach project by Penn State Cooperative Extension and The Pennsylvania Bureau of Forestry to involve schools in hands-on forest stewardship. The 2 main objectives of this program are: (1) to demonstrate how natural resource professionals can assist a school in developing a long-term resource and educational plan for a forestland property; and (2) to involve youth, parents, and teachers in the implementation of this plan, so that they might learn, grow, and apply their educational experience in their communities.

There are several innovative aspects of this program. First, it represents a new paradigm for expanding the state?s traditional forest stewardship program. Entire ?schools of people? are introduced to the stewardship ethic, rather than individual forest landowners only. Second, the training of teachers and school administrators about natural resources management impacts the accuracy of subsequent lessons they present to students. Third, students are afforded real-life opportunities to apply lessons and gain experience in the stewardship forests. Lastly, strong community involvement in this program leads to considerable contributions of labor and resources to schools from throughout their community. There is a high level of enthusiasm on the part of the teachers to incorporate stewardship curriculum into their lessons. High levels of "buy-in" by school administrators, and the involvement of parents, students, and community groups indicate initial success. Eight schools are currently involved in the program.