Creating a 'Healthy, Happy Student Population' Through Outdoor Learning

Rhea-AI Summary

East Foundation's 'Behind the Gates' program at El Sauz Ranch in South Texas educates students on ranching and environmental conservation. Enbridge supports with a $15,000 grant for a learning station, aligning with their commitment to sustainability.

East Foundation brings Texas students ‘behind the gates' to learn ranching and respect for the environment

NORTHAMPTON, MA / ACCESSWIRE / March 28, 2024 / Station by station, students visiting the El Sauz Ranch in South Texas explore what happens behind the scenes at a working ranch.

At one station, they will learn how cattle are cared for and provide food. The next covers the ranch's watershed and the importance of protecting the health of nearby bays and estuaries. Another delves into the conservation of native plants and wildlife, such as the endangered ocelot, a spotted wild cat found near the Gulf of Mexico.

East Foundation began offering education programs, dubbed Behind the Gates, in 2014, motivated by research that shows kids who learn outdoors are "healthier, smarter, happier," says Tina Buford, director of education at the Foundation.

"We're able to help students learn while also increasing their connectedness to nature," she adds.

Each of the Foundation's educators specialize in the Texas science curriculum, helping K-12 students understand the practical application of what they study in textbooks. In 2023, more than 14,000 young learners across the Rio Grande Valley participated in East Foundation programs.

Buoyed by the demand for their offerings, the Foundation opened a new education center at the 27,000-acre El Sauz ranch in 2022. A large main pavilion serves as a receiving and congregation space, complementing the six smaller pavilions that serve as learning stations positioned along a walking trail winding around the education center.

In support of the initiative, Enbridge recently awarded the Foundation a Fueling Futures grant of $15,000 to fund a learning station.

Each year, the Foundation helps thousands of youth form stronger connections to the land-and the East Foundation's work to foster sustainability and educate future generations of students aligns with our company's commitment to protecting the environment.

Today's young learners often don't have a clear understanding of what happens at a working ranch and how it's relevant in their lives, Buford says. "We're helping them understand that the land provides them with valuable natural resources for their lives," she explains.

"Getting kids outdoors contributes to academic success and a healthy, happy student population. It contributes to life satisfaction."

South Texas students at a learning station on the East Foundation's El Sauz Ranch are educated in topics such as wildlife conservation, land stewardship, and the importance of watersheds.
Photo credit: Jonathan Vail.

View additional multimedia and more ESG storytelling from Enbridge on 3blmedia.com.

Contact Info:
Spokesperson: Enbridge
Website: https://www.3blmedia.com/profiles/enbridge
Email: info@3blmedia.com

SOURCE: Enbridge

View the original press release on accesswire.com

FAQ

What is the name of the program offered by East Foundation at El Sauz Ranch in South Texas?

The program is called 'Behind the Gates'.

Who awarded the Foundation a $15,000 grant to fund a learning station?

Enbridge awarded the Foundation the grant.

What is the main focus of the education programs at East Foundation?

The programs focus on educating students on ranching, environmental conservation, and connecting with nature.

How many young learners participated in East Foundation programs in 2023?

More than 14,000 young learners across the Rio Grande Valley participated.

What type of wildlife conservation topics are covered at the learning stations?

Topics such as wildlife conservation, land stewardship, and the importance of watersheds are covered.