The Clifton Institute is an environmental nonprofit located on a beautiful 900-acre property just north of Warrenton. We conduct scientific research, carry out habitat restoration, and provide education, all in one place. Pre-K-12 students on our fields trip contribute to real science projects being done here at Clifton, the results from which are helping us better understand and manage native habitats in our region. In the 2022-2023 school year, we will be offering five projects for field trips to participate in. Each project is only active during a certain time of year (insects in the summer, amphibians in the spring, etc.), as shown in the image below.

In this training, we will discuss some of our research projects and demonstrate some of the scientific methods we use out in the field. We will practice using sweep nets to survey for insects, quadrats to collect data on grassland plants, and binoculars to monitor bird behavior.  If you are planning on bringing your class here for a field trip, this training will give you background information to help prepare your students for their visit. Whether you are planning on a field trip or not, you will learn about the native biodiversity of Virginia and about ways that scientists are studying the conservation and ecology of native species, as well as get ideas about how to incorporate field science into your classroom.

Participating teachers will receive a $150 stipend and 6 hours of professional development credit.