Land Conservation Department Supports Youth Education
Published on August 12, 2026
The Outagamie County Land Conservation Department is helping young people learn how to care for the land, water, and natural resources we all share.
Through hands-on events, creative contests, online learning tools, and community volunteers, students have the chance to explore conservation in fun and meaningful ways. These programs help students better understand how their choices can protect Wisconsin’s natural resources now and in the future.
Conservation Field Days Celebrates 60 Years
This year marks the 60th year of Conservation Field Days in Outagamie County. The event has already reached full capacity, showing strong interest from local schools and students.
Conservation Field Days is a hands-on outdoor learning experience for fifth and sixth grade students who live in Outagamie County. The event is hosted by the Outagamie County Land Conservation Department, along with local conservation professionals and volunteers.
In past years, about 900 students have taken part in the event. Students rotate through different learning stations where they explore topics connected to the environment and natural resources.
Topics may include:
- Soil health
- Water quality
- Wildlife
- Forestry
- Agriculture
- Recycling
- Invasive species
- Other conservation topics
At each station, students learn from people who work in conservation, farming, forestry, water protection, and other natural resource fields. The goal is to help students see how science, nature, and everyday choices are connected.
Students Get Creative Through the Poster Contest
The Land Conservation Department also supports youth education through the Poster Contest held in partnership with the Wisconsin Land & Water Conservation Association.
This contest gives students a chance to use art and creativity to share important conservation messages. Posters may focus on protecting soil, keeping water clean, helping wildlife, reducing waste, or caring for the environment.
The contest encourages students to think about how they can inspire others to protect Wisconsin’s natural resources. Poster and speaking contest winners may also have the opportunity to advance and represent Wisconsin at national contests.
Learning Does Not Stop After the Event
Youth conservation education continues beyond Conservation Field Days and the Poster Contest.
The Land Conservation Department provides videos and teaching tools on its website to help students, teachers, and families keep learning throughout the year. These resources support classroom lessons and help young people better understand the natural world around them.
By offering these educational opportunities, the department helps students build awareness, curiosity, and responsibility for Wisconsin’s land and water resources.
Volunteers Help Make It Happen
Volunteers play an important role in making youth conservation programs successful.
Community members are always needed and welcomed. Volunteers may help at events, assist with hands-on activities, support learning stations, or help with other educational outreach efforts.
By giving their time, volunteers help create positive learning experiences for Outagamie County students. They also help inspire the next generation to care for the land and water that make our county a great place to live.
Inspiring the Next Generation
The Outagamie County Land Conservation Department is proud to support programs that connect students with nature and teach the value of conservation.
When young people learn how soil, water, plants, animals, farms, forests, and communities are connected, they are better prepared to protect these resources in the future.
Through education, creativity, and volunteer support, Outagamie County is helping students grow into informed caretakers of Wisconsin’s natural resources.