Eco-Inquiry explores the concepts of food chains, decomposition and nutrient recycling. The Urban Park Rangers conduct free nature walks and craft workshops in New York City parks, and are a force for environmental education and park stewardship throughout the five boroughs. Families The Rangers feature weekend programs on myriad subjects-hawk watches, autumn leaf tours, evening star walks and living history programs, to name a few. Their nature centers, which provide information about local ecology and history, make interesting and worthwhile destinations for family outings. Each year, thousands of schoolchildren visit these living outdoor classrooms to learn about nature firsthand with Urban Park Rangers.
Teachers can select from a variety of programs, described below.
In this program for children in grades 3 through 12, students venture into the heart of an urban forest. Some take soil samples and analyze them for pH levels and texture, while others work together to identify plants and map the area's features. The teams conclude their efforts by planting trees and shrubs on the site they have been studying. Offered in various parks throughout the city. Trees are an invaluable natural resource.