Local high school students can now serve the community by getting active and learning in nature at Norman Bird Sanctuary’s new Ready, Set, Hike program this fall.
Over the course of 5 Sunday hikes, high-schoolers will explore all seven miles of hiking trails at NBS with an eye out for birds and native wildlife. During the hikes, the students will collect data and learn naturalist skills such as basic plant and animal identification and water quality testing techniques.
“Teens love being outside and exploring the trails,” said Norman Bird Sanctuary’s Director of Education Rachel Holbert, “and the Ready, Set, Hike program lets them develop new skills while contributing to our understanding of the incredible biodiversity of these 325 protected acres.”
Students who complete at least four hikes earn a $100 stipend, community service hours, and receive a Norman Bird Sanctuary water bottle. They also have the option of attending a free First Aid/CPR certification course.
This program is designed to get teens active outdoors while establishing meaningful connections to nature with hands-on environmental education.
The Ready, Set, Hike program is “Powered by Prince,” through a grant from the Frederick Henry Prince Memorial Fund at Newport Hospital.
The hikes will run 2:00 p.m. to 4:00 p.m. every other Sunday beginning September 24th. Space is limited. Register online at: www.NormanBirdSanctuary.org/Education/Hiking-Programs/
