Do you ever wish that more environmental topics were taught in middle and high school? Well many people do (including myself) and that is the basis of Project learning Tree. Project Learning Tree is an education program that teachers can use in the classroom for subjects from social studies, math, science, and reading. This is a really awesome program to get kids outside and more interested in environmental conservation. I had the opportunity to attend a "Teaching Trees" workshop for teachers to get certified as a Project Learning Tree educator that was put on by Virginia Cooperative Extension, Virginia Department of Forestry, Project Learning Tree, and Dowdy's Forest and Land Management.
During this workshop I was able get an idea about all the steps that go into papermaking at a mill, which is actually a Project Learning Tree activity that you can do with students.
During this workshop I was able get an idea about all the steps that go into papermaking at a mill, which is actually a Project Learning Tree activity that you can do with students.
We were also able to see a portable sawmill in action! This was a very interesting way to see a log be cut into boards. It was such a fast process with not too many moving parts. It's awesome to see how easily this wood can become a useable product.
These programs are a great way for teachers to learn more about the forestry and environmental industries so they can better represent these industries to their students. I know from personal experience, the classes that students take in middle school and high school can really shape the path that they go down in the future!