Gunnison District

Conservation Education

Promoting public understanding of the role and value of Colorado's forest and other natural resources is an important part of the Colorado State Forest Service (CSFS) mission. Our educational, rather than regulatory, approach is the reason CSFS has evolved into an outreach arm of the Warner College of Natural Resource at Colorado State University.

We view our educational mission as much more than disseminating information materials. We take an integrated approach to Conservation Education and develop opportunities for the public to take conservation action based on their personal commitment. It is this dual approach of telling the story and presenting factual information combined with on-the-ground implementation alternatives and assistance that makes our organization unique.

There's a change in the air in western Colorado. Alliances are forming to further environmental education. These collaborative efforts include federal, state and local agencies; agricultural groups; non-governmental and non-profit organizations; school districts; and, diverse support groups. To date, these groups have compiled educational information and libraries, printed and distributed resource directories, produced newsletters, taught workshops and sponsored youth summits and other events. The momentum grows as one idea builds on another.

The Gunnison Resource Environmental Network (GREEN) is the local partnership that provides a collaborative effort to reach students in Gunnison, Crested Butte and Lake City.

Project Learning Tree

CSFS focuses on teachers to achieve public understanding of forestry's role and value in a healthy environment and economy. Project Learning Tree for youth educators lays the foundation for future landowners to view themselves as land stewards, for community residents to become tree board members or for recreationists to realize their responsibility for careful fire use.

Conservation Education Links

Our favorite Conservation Education & General Forestry links: