Calhoun County Fourth Graders Embrace Environmental Education at Earth Day Field Trip

Calhoun County, AL – In a celebration of environmental stewardship and education, the Calhoun County Extension Office and Calhoun County Schools joined forces once again to host the annual Earth Day Field Trip for Calhoun County 4th graders. This  training event, a tradition spanning over two decades, brought together over 650 eager students alongside more than 100 educators and volunteers for two days of immersive learning and exploration.

Sponsored by a diverse array of community partners, including the Calhoun County Master Gardeners, Alabama Power Company, Calhoun County Farmers Federation, Tyler Union, Legacy, Partners in Environmental Education, Showa Gloves, Calhoun County Beekeepers, Calhoun County Commission, Calhoun County Young Farmers, Calhoun County 4-H Youth Leadership Council, Alabama Scenic River Trail, Coosa Valley Youth Services, Oxford Water Works, and the Calhoun County Soil and Water Conservation District, demonstrated unwavering commitment to environmental education and community engagement. Through their invaluable support, students were able to engage in a diverse range of educational activities aimed at fostering a deeper understanding of environmental stewardship and responsibility., the Earth Day Field Trip provided students with a hands-on opportunity to engage with various aspects of environmental conservation and sustainability.

Throughout the event, students rotated through a series of educational stations, each offering unique insights and activities designed to foster a deeper understanding of our natural world. From learning about camouflage in nature with the “Birds and Worms” Project Learning Tree activity to exploring the importance of safe power line practices, students were treated to a diverse range of experiences aimed at instilling a sense of environmental responsibility.

Other stations included engaging lessons on farm animal care, water sports safety, and the principles of wise recycling, with interactive activities such as the “Wise Recycling Relay Race” encouraging students to actively participate and apply their newfound knowledge.

One highlight of the Earth Day Field Trip was the “Ag in Action Trailer,” which provided students with a firsthand look at various aspects of agriculture and its impact on the environment. Additionally, students had the opportunity to witness the vital role of bees in our ecosystem through the “Beekeeping” station and engage in a lively performance of “The Lorax Play,” inspiring reflection on the importance of environmental conservation.

Reflecting on the success of the event, organizers expressed gratitude to the numerous sponsors, volunteers, and educators whose support made the Earth Day Field Trip possible. By fostering a deeper appreciation for the environment and equipping students with the knowledge and skills to become responsible stewards of the planet, the event exemplified the spirit of Earth Day and the ongoing commitment to environmental education in Calhoun County.