April 22nd, marks Earth Day, a wonderful time to celebrate the natural world and inspire the next generation of environmental stewards! Whether you are planning a last-minute activity or looking for ways to integrate nature into your programming throughout the spring, there are many meaningful ways to get 4-H youth involved in conservation and scientific discovery.
Engaging Youth in Climate Solutions and Citizen Science
To kick off the season of outdoor education, we are excited to highlight two excellent resources that can bring environmental science to life for your youth groups.
First, “Field Notes on Climate,” a collection from PBS Wisconsin Education, offers a solutions-focused look at how people across our state are addressing climate change through research, community action, and youth leadership. While this series is designed for grades 6–12, the content is easily adaptable for younger audiences and includes valuable educator guides. You can find more information and access these free resources here: About Field Notes on Climate – PBS Wisconsin Education.
Second, consider incorporating the iNaturalist app into your outdoor programming. This powerful tool allows youth to document plants and insects they encounter, contributing their findings to real-world scientific research. It is a fantastic way to introduce the concept of community science, particularly as we approach events like the City Nature Challenge. For those interested in getting started, you can access an introductory webinar at 11 am on April 22nd: Introduction to iNaturalist Webinar Registration – Zoom.
Expanding Your Earth Day Efforts
Beyond these resources, there are many ways to engage youth in hands-on environmental action this week and throughout the spring:
- Host a Local Nature BioBlitz: Organize a group to document as many plant and animal species as possible in a local park or community area.
- Organize a Community Cleanup: Adopt a local trail, stream, or neighborhood green space for a litter cleanup to teach responsibility and environmental care.
- Launch a Pollinator Project: Plan a pollinator-friendly garden, or build bee houses and bird feeders to support local wildlife.
- Start an Eco-Habit Challenge: Encourage youth to track daily sustainable choices, such as reducing waste, composting, or conserving energy, and share their progress.
- Explore Local Conservation: Research ongoing conservation efforts in your area, such as local habitat restoration projects or wildlife protection initiatives, and look for opportunities to support or learn from local experts.
I hope you all can celebrate Earth Day in your own way, and I’m looking forward to connecting with you, supporting your work, and continuing to grow outdoor education opportunities across the state together.
Article by Jason Hornickel, Wisconsin 4-H Positive Youth Development Outdoor Education Specialist