Education Programs

The Soil and Water Conservation District offers educational materials and presents and participates in many educational programs. Click on the links below for more information:
Education Resources Links	Education Programs Brochure	Envirothon	Workshops & Seminars	Grants, Contests & Scholarships

A variety of outreach programs for K-12 classrooms and scout groups are offered by SWCD staff. Programs are interdisciplinary and can be designed to meet the needs of classroom curriculum.

To Schedule an Education Program:
Typical program length is between 30-60 minutes. Please call at least two weeks in advance of desired program date to schedule a program. Contact: Elizabeth Hagen-Moeller 630.584.7961 Ext. 3 Education Coordinator Kane-DuPage Soil & Water Conservation District 2315 Dean Street, Suite 100, St. Charles, IL 60175 630.584.7961 Ext. 3	Program Fees: Programs are $40 for the first class and $20 for each additional class visited the same day. Scout programs are $40 for up to 12 children, and $2 for each additional child Low income schools - call for special rates.
Possible outreach program topics include, but are not limited to the programs listed below.

Age-Level	PROGRAMS
late elementary through middle school	The Changing Landscape Kane and DuPage counties have experienced huge growth and development. Students will use historical aerial photos and maps to learn how the area has changed over time and the effects that these land use changes have on the natural resources.
late elementary through middle school	Dig Deeper Into Soils Soil is more than the loose brown stuff underneath our feet. There are many different types of soil with distinct textures and colors. Students will get their hands dirty as they investigate the formation, components and importance of soil.
early & late elementary school	Dirt Decomposers Did you know there is more life in the ground than above? A teaspoon of soil contains more than a billion organisms! Students will discover the world underneath their feet as they learn about the critters that help recycle plant nutrients and form soil.
late elementary through high school	Groundwater: Our Hidden Treasure Nearly half of Illinois’ residents use groundwater from wells for drinking. Activities on the land have an impact on the quality water stored underground. Learn about groundwater and its role in the water cycle. Students will see groundwater in action through a demonstration using a groundwater model.
early & late elementary school	H2O on the Go The water that we drink today is the same water dinosaurs drank years ago. Follow water’s endless journey through the water cycle and learn how he water we use gets to us.
early & late elementary school	Tree-mendous Plants help support life! Not only do they provide us with oxygen, they provide homes and food for wildlife, help prevent soil erosion, and provide many products we use every day. This program will expose students to the diversity, function, and importance of trees and other plants.
early & late elementary school	Wonderful Water Water is a key element for all life. Learn about the physical properties of water, how we use this precious natural resource and the importance of water conservation.

Grants, Contests & Scholarship Opportunities *

Leopold Education Project Scholarship Program
A scholarship program for students pursing a 4-year degree in the field of Natural Resources. Due April 1st
Download a LEP scholarship application

Trees for Schools
The SWCD offers one tree seedling to help elementary schools in Kane and DuPage Counties celebrate Arbor Day.
The 12-18 inch tree comes in a one gallon pot. Order forms are sent to schools in February each year.