We’re dedicated to fostering a strong connection between local youth and the natural world through our dynamic Education Program.
By partnering with local schools and youth groups, we bring the wonders of the Great Burn ecosystem directly to students.
Our curriculum is designed to immerse young learners in the study of native ecosystems, wildlife, native species, the challenges posed by invasive species, and wilderness skills. We blend classroom instruction with hands-on, experiential learning to create a comprehensive, engaging, and impactful educational experience.
THE BEST WAYS TO EXPERIENCE THE BURN
PLAN A FIELD TRIP
On a field trip into the Great Burn, students can experience the wilderness firsthand. These excursions aren’t just about observing nature, but experiencing it, understanding it, and developing the skills needed to protect it.
Direct engagement with the environment helps to solidify their classroom learning and fosters a lifelong appreciation for nature. Through our efforts, we aim to inspire the next generation to be knowledgeable, passionate, and prepared to make a difference on the Great Burn.
INVITE A GREAT BURN SPEAKER
Our education program is rooted in community engagement. We work with local schools and youth groups throughout our Mission Area to deliver a curriculum designed to impart academic knowledge and foster a sense of belonging among students, teachers, and community members.
Through collaborative projects, local partnerships, and community service initiatives, we ensure that our students develop a profound appreciation for their communities and the natural world around them, and a strong sense of responsibility towards its betterment.
ACCESS SELF-GUIDED MATERIALS
Teachers, educators, and youth group and community leaders can self-lead 30-, 45-, 60-, and 90-minute lessons to supplement their curricula or introduce GBCA experts into their classrooms or outdoor settings safely and responsibly.
Printable workbooks, pre-built slide decks, supplemental materials, and supply lists help educators create the best possible and prepared learning environments for classes of all ages and sizes.
→ COMING SOON
“Yesterday, my classmates and I went on a field trip to the North Fork. We learned about safety signs. With Chris, we learned how to pull Spotted Knapweed. Then we ate lunch after we picked up trash. Then we went on a walk with Joelle. After that, we went on a hike with the whole class, and we saw a plant called Wild Ginger. We had so much fun; sadly, we had to go back to school.”
— Ceci, 4th grader from Weippe, Idaho
WHAT STUDENTS LEARN FROM GREAT BURN EXPERTS
The Great Burn Conservation Alliance (GBCA) helps students build the knowledge and confidence to interact with and care for the natural landscapes that surround them. Immersive indoor and outdoor lessons, games, and hands-on experiences expand on topics, including:
Plants and forestry
Native and invasive species management
Population growth
Public land designations
Wildlife and species of concern
Wilderness and outdoor skills
Traditional ecological models
Population dynamicsRecreation and Leave No Trace principles
Watershed and aquatics
Biodiversity in the Great Burn ecosystem
IN 2025
25
CLASSROOMS VISITED
5
FIELD TRIPS TAKEN
1200
STUDENTS REACHED
IDYCA PARTNERSHIP GROWS STRONGER EACH SEASON
In our third annual cycle with the Idaho Youth Challenge Academy, students stepped beyond the classroom and into the Burn, discovering the power of experiential learning.
Eight cadets attended a three-day backpacking trip that blended education, work, friendly competition, community service, and free time to explore and enjoy the landscape. We believe education happens when students get their hands dirty, push their limits, and build lasting bonds through meaningful, hands-on experiences in the places we strive to protect.
BECOME A FRIEND OF THE BURN
Make any recurring donation, and opt in to receive action alerts, volunteer information, newsletters, and other opportunities to get engaged to become a Friend of the Burn. You’ll join hundreds of others who are showing support for permanent protection of this special place, so that it can stay Wild and available for generations to come.
