COLUMBUS, OH – The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) recently updated a searchable, online database that will make it easier for teachers to introduce students to important environmental issues.

Ohio educators can select interactive, state-approved lessons from Project Learning Tree, Project WET, Project WILD and Windows on the Wild based on specific areas of study (science or social studies) and/or grade levels. The comprehensive environmental education programs, which are sponsored by ODNR Divisions of Forestry, Soil and Water Conservation, Water and Wildlife, are aligned with Ohio Academic Content Standards for social studies and science.

“Interaction with nature, be it through structured curricula or free play, enhances young people’s cognitive flexibility, sharpens critical thinking, hones problem solving skills and develops the imagination,” said ODNR Director Sean Logan, citing research by The Trust for Public Land and others. “The ODNR database will make it easier for educators to bring conservation issues into the classroom by providing valuable, interdisciplinary learning opportunities that are suitable for their students.”

In 2007, the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency helped fund the alignment of the curricula with Ohio’s social studies content standards. The programs had already received the Ohio Environmental Education Fund Outstanding Project Award for aligning the student activities with the Ohio Department of Education‘s standards for science education.

Coordinators for the programs will continue work to correlate the activities to the Ohio Academic Content Standards for English-Language Arts and Technology.

Teachers looking for more information about Project Learning Tree, Project WET, Project WILD and Windows on the Wild or the searchable database can visit the ODNR Educational Database here.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com.

ODNR Database for Teachers offers State Approved Outdoor Lessons ©, .

Just a couple quick links I’ve Been Collecting  as I’ve got to get back out and weed whack the jungle:

• Bike Commuting for Newbies- An interesting article on what to look for if you’re deciding gas is just too darn much. Safety, Comfort and Equipment issues to watch for.
• How to prepare for a long distance hike- If biking’s not for you, maybe walking. Now might be the summer to prepare to do the AT.
• Bass Fishing 101- Nice collection of articles on Bass Fishing.
• Whitewater Park- PA’s first Whitewater park. An interesting concept that can be used elsewhere (Hint, hint)…Take a riverside park, add a gravel trail and allow Canoes, Kayaks and Tubers to put in on one side and come out 300 Yards downstream. Walk back and repeat. Might be worth the drive to Somerset County..
• Camping 101 from Post-Gazette-Nice little article for novices.
• Survival Myths Debunked- Waterproof matches? No, Lighter.  Eat Plants? No, eat bugs.
• The Wilderness wiki- All the craziness of Wikipedia, only about the outdoors!

See you guys later with more news, events and Information!

Quick Links: Cycle Commuting, ©, .

Just found this Press release about the new Forbes Trail website in PA:

New Forbes Trail Educational Site ©, .