ecoEXPLORE

What is ecoEXPLORE?

ecoEXPLORE (Experiences Promoting Learning Outdoors for Research and Education) is an incentive-based citizen science program for children in grades K-8. Developed by The North Carolina Arboretum, this innovative program combines science exploration with kid-friendly technology to foster a fun learning environment for children while encouraging them to explore the outdoors and participate in citizen science.” (Source: The NC Arboretum)

Seeking some ecoEXPLORE Programming?

Are you looking for some programming to work towards the ecoEXPLORE program? Balsam Mountain Trust and our AmeriCorps Member offer programming that can help your students and patrons work toward ecoEXPLORE points and badges towards ecoEXPLORE citizen science projects. If you are a public library/school or Title 1 program in Jackson or Haywood counties, we can provide programming at no cost to you for the topics listed below.

To schedule a program, please fill out THIS FORM and our Education Outreach Coordinator will get back to you shortly.

Amazing Avians

Field Season:
January, February

Flock to your local library and join us in learning about our feathered friends; the birds! In this program we will learn about unique adaptations of birds, how important they are to an ecosystem, and meet a few birds of prey.

Backyard Botany

Field Season:
March, April

Plants are the base energy source for almost all animal life on Earth, but how much do you know about our green friends? Join us in learning about the complex lives of plants in our botany lesson with our AmeriCorps member.

Slithering Scales

Field Season:
May, June

Slither and hop to your local library to learn about the reptile and amphibians we share our world with. Discover what makes them unique with our AmeriCorps member.

Fantastic Fungi

Field Season:
Late September, October

Sneak a peek at the fantastical world of mycology with our AmeriCorps member. Learn about the thousands of species of fungus and go on a mushroom hunt if weather allows as well as examine real specimens up close! This program will be held during peak mushroom season in the Blue Ridge Mountains. 

Mammal Madness

Field Season:
November, December

Join us in learning about the magnificent world of mammals! Using real biofacts, print casts, and a live animal we will discuss the unique adaptations of mammals as well as identify various species with a guessing game that’s fun for all ages.