The Conservancy's school and youth programs are attended annually by over 1200 participants from the community-at-large and have frequently been described by teachers and children alike as "the best field trip we've ever had!" The opportunity to explore the natural environment and engage in interactive projects that fascinate, as well as educate, creates a unique and memorable experience.

For further information regarding Santa Lucia Conservancy's School and Youth Programs, or to schedule a visit for your school or youth group, please contact us at (831) 626-8595, Ext. 104.

Follow this link for teacher information and release form.

Please see our list of classes below.

Santa Lucia Conservancy Education Program

We welcome your class or youth group to join our naturalists in an outdoor adventure at either our “Nature’s Classroom”, along the Carmel River, or the beautiful Potrero Creek.  We continue to offer a wide range of fun and educational experiences, which can be adapted for all ages. We have made specific recommendations for Kindergarten through Fifth Grade, and welcome all upper grades as well.  We can customize classes to fit the ages of the group.

Along Potrero Creek, a 10-minute drive into the Preserve,  classes in the following subjects reveal the wonder of the riparian (creek side) environment. 

Natural History:  Nature walks offer young children hands-on experience with nature.  Children are encouraged to use their senses, explore seasonal occurrences in the landscape along the creek, and peek into the activities of wildlife  Art projects integrate the experience. Suitable for all ages, especially Kindergarten through 2nd grade

Plants:  There are more living things along water than in any other community.  Opportunities for study of native plants abound, from tiny wildflowers to giant redwoods.

Animals:  Our field mammals class combines an introduction to our local animals with a search for recent animal activity (tracks, scat and more).

Birds:  Shelter, food and water bring many birds to waterways.  Our popular Owl class offers a fascinating introduction to the numerous birds living in our area.

Reptiles and Amphibians:  Water and shade provide perfect habitat for salamanders and frogs, while lizards scurry in the sunny clearings.

Butterflies and Mini-Beasts:  Sun and high plant diversity provide the perfect setting for a close up view of our most colorful insects.  Warm days are preferable (their wing muscles don’t work when they are cold!) 

Art and Poetry:  Inspired by a walk along creek to collect materials, students can express their feelings about nature in words and art.

History:  The Preserve has been home to the Rumsen Indians, Carmel Mission neophytes and livestock, Mexican land grantees and American rancheros. Walk in the footsteps of former residents while learning about how they used native plants.

At Our Outdoor Classroom along the Carmel River is an ideal site for some of our most interactive classes

General Natural History:  Especially for our youngest visitors, a short walk inspires nature art, crafts and games.

Mammals:  Our very popular mammals class includes creating plaster casts of an animal foot, research on animal natural history and an “animal detective” walk.

Birds: The nearby Carmel River and an abundance of vegetation ensure the presence of a wide variety of birds year round.  We teach 2 bird classes, Bird Habitats and Natural History of Cavity Nesting Birds.

Follow this link for more details.