THE CHILDREN'S FOREST
In 1993, a 3,400-acre site within the San Bernardino National
Forest was set aside to create the first Children's Forest in the United
States. To begin the fulfillment of its unique mission of involving youth
in taking care of the forest, 40 young people from
around the country were selected and brought to work side by side with key Forest Service staff and other
experts.
They designed a trail and interpretive exhibits along the trail
that teach young people about the Forest. Youth were also involved in the
development of ideas for educational programs and activities that could be offered within Children's Forest. The mission of
Children’s Forest is to provide a place where (1) youth can participate in stewardship, research, and education
projects to develop skills in communications, leadership, and problem solving,
and (2) youth and families can participate in programs to learn how to explore a forest setting. Children’s Forest
provides young people with opportunities to participate in projects that
integrate social, economic, educational, and environmental dimensions
in order to prepare them to be the future stewards and
decision makers for the earth’s shared resources.
There are three program areas within Children’s Forest:
1. The Ecosystem Management Program involves youth in actual management
decisions by allowing them to participate in research, planning and
implementation of resource management activities.
2. The Education Program offers exciting, guided field trips for all
types of groups. These trips provide experiential activities that highlight
the interconnections that exist between plants, animals, and people, and help
youth appreciate the world around them.
3. The Visitor’s Information Center (VIC), slated to open in 2001, will
be the starting point for a visit to Children’s Forest. The VIC will offer
opportunities for Forest visitors to enjoy participation in guided activities,
to learn more about the area through educational exhibits, as well as to
browse the unique items on display in the gift shop.
Individuals interested in obtaining news and updates on Children’s
Forest programs may submit their names to the e-mail list. For further
information, feel free to call us at 909-337-5156.