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Educators

Conservation Education helps people of all ages understand and appreciate our country's public lands -- and learn how to conserve those resources for future generations. Conservation education also encourages individuals to act on their own, to conserve environmental resources and protect public lands.

On this page, you'll find:

  • Information on Every Kid Outdoors.
  • Educational activities to do at home, school, or in the outdoors.
  • Free resources, curricula, and activities in conservation education from the Forest Service and our partners.

For more information how you can get involved, be sure to check out our Just for Kids page. 

Every Kid Outdoors

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(USDA Forest Service)

Every Kid Outdoors is a nationwide program that encourages 4th graders to get outside and visit their federal public lands and waters by offering a free pass their entire 4th grade year.

This pass allows free admission at sites that charge entrance or standard amenity fees at over 2000 federal lands and waters for a full year beginning September 1 and ending August 31. It does not cover expanded fees so please inquire at the location you will be visiting for more information on pass acceptance. Call your local forest service office for exact details on how the pass applies to your adventure.

By participating in the Every Kid Outdoors Program, you can connect with nature and learn about your heritage while exploring millions of acres of federal lands and waters for free. Bring your family and friends to check out prehistoric dinosaur tracks, explore ancient sites, hike around a volcano or sit quietly and see what animals you observe in their natural habitat.  

Each pass holder is eligible for a free Christmas tree permit on the Umatilla National Forest. 

Educational Programs

Smokey Bear

Smokey Bear hugging a student while visiting a classroom

Learn about campfire safety, the story of Smokey Bear, and find classroom materials for all ages! Only you can prevent wildfires! 

Woodsy Owl

Children exploring in the Forest

Learn more about recycling with Woodsy Owl. Lend a Hand - Care for the Land! 

Junior Forest Ranger

Kids learning about the ten essentials to take with you while visiting the Forest

View the Junior Forest/Snow Ranger Books for fun Forest activities and learning experiences! 

Leave No Trace

Forest Service employee teaching about fire

Visit the Leave No Trace For Every Kid website to find resources that helps young people learn how responsible actions can protect the outdoors and our planet. 

Discover the Forest

Students learning about tree identification at Outdoor School

Visit the Discover the Forest website to find family-friendly activities for enjoying the outdoors. 

Natural Inquirer

Kids walking through meadow

Visit the Natural Inquirer website to find free science education materials for pre-k through high school. 

Project Learning Tree

Kid learning about insects

Visit the Project Learning Tree website to view environmental educations programs for indoor and outdoor classrooms. 

Oregon Forest Resources Institute

Kid learning about birds

Find educational videos about conservation careers and more on the Oregon Forest Resources Institute! 

The Nature Conservancy

Forest Service employee teaching kids

Explore The Nature Conservancy's virtual field trips exploring the world! 

Last updated January 5, 2026