Project Learning Tree (PLT) Workshops

Project Learning Tree is a multi-disciplinary environmental program offering forest-specific workshops through the Oregon State University College of Forestry’s Oregon Natural Resource Program and the Oregon Forest Resources Institute. The workshops meet state and national education standards and emphasize critical thinking and problem solving skills. Participants receive the Project Learning Tree Activity Guide and a number of teaching resources. PLT events are held in various counties throughout the school year, and early registration is recommended. Substitute reimbursement funds are available if attended during a teaching day. More information is available by contacting Susan Sahnow at OSU, (541)737-3005, or by visiting www.cof.orst.edu/cof/extended/ofep

FT&F/OFRI Forest Discovery Tours

Forests Today & Forever, local landowners and OFRI offer summer tours of area forestlands on selected Thursdays and Saturdays from mid-July through August. Participants will learn how forest managers work to balance wood production while providing clean water, wildlife habitat and recreational opportunities. The tours, which are guided by forest professionals, depart from the Springfield Chamber of Commerce or from Ray's Market in Veneta at 8:30 a.m. and are scheduled to return by 2 p.m. In 2008, the tours will take place on July 10, July 24, July 31, Aug. 2 and Aug. 7. Please contact FT&F Coordinator LaRae Ash at (541)998-6438 or by email for more information.

Temperate Forest Foundation Teachers’ Tour

The Temperate Forest Foundation (TFF), based in Portland, sponsors a series of three-day Teacher Forestry Tours designed to allow teachers to experience the forest industry first hand. Participants visit a variety of mills, forests and educational stops, including museums, national and state parks, plantations, experimental forests, nurseries, learning centers, hatcheries and more. Space is limited and pre-registration is required. FT&F will cover registration and travel expenses for teachers who select this option. There are currently some paid spaces available for teachers from Washington, Oregon and California interested in attending. More information may be obtained at www.forestinfo.org.

Teacher on Summer Assignment (TOSA)

In this “learn-as-you-go” program offered by the Oregon Forest Resource Institute, teachers spend six summer weeks working with company or agency mentors on paid forest management and environmental monitoring assignments. Participants will receive a first-hand look at how science, math and other subjects are applied by forestry professionals in the workplace. Responsibilities may include performing wildlife inventories, watershed assessments, stream surveys and measurement of tree growth in research plots. Participating teachers are paid and may earn credit. Applications are available in March. For more information, visit the OFRI Web site at www.oregonforests.org.