What you need to start a school forest

A successful school forest needs three things.

  1. Land for students to explore. It can be forested or a “blank slate” ready for you to invest and improve upon. The school, community, or other entity can own it.
  2. Teachers who are open to teaching outdoors. You need a critical mass of teachers who are open to teaching outdoors, even if they’ve never done it before.
  3. A committee of supporters from school administrators and the community who will be responsible for making sure the site is being used and cared for. Leaders should understand, value, and support physical and academic instruction in the outdoors.

For more ideas on how to start a school forest, download "Planting the Seed: How to Start a Minnesota School Forest" or contact the School Forest program for a copy.

Learn how to apply to the program.

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