The Del Monte Forest Conservancy is a 501(c)(3) organization formed to acquire, manage and maintain open space in Del Monte Forest for the benefit of current and future generations. We currently manage over 700 acres of native habitat, hiking trails and forest.
The Del Monte Forest Conservancy (DMFC) Youth Environmental Education Program provides outdoor field trips for local students to learn about our Monterey forest and coastal dune habitats. This unique program, carefully planned and led by interpretive naturalists, offers hands-on ecology and natural exploration for students in Kindergarten - 8th grade. Aligned with California's Next Generation Science Standards, students engage in a range of activities designed to promote environmental stewardship, personal growth and social awareness. We provide magnifiers, binoculars, and nature journaling supplies. Students collect and organize their observations, questions, connections, and explanations through writing and various art experiences. DMFC covers all costs of the program, including stipends for instructors, transportation reimbursement and educational materials. During the school year classes are offered to public, private and charter school students and, during school and summer breaks, to at-risk youth from local organizations through The Boys and Girls Club and Community Partnership for Youth.
Participants include students and educators from Monterey County schools and youth programs located in Big Sur, Carmel, Carmel Valley, Del Rey Oaks, Marina, Monterey, Pacific Grove, Salinas and Seaside. As a result of their hands-on, in-person learning experience, these individuals will develop lifelong observation skills and a new or deeper appreciation for their environment. In turn, as they grow and contribute to their Monterey County communities, they are more likely to become stewards of the land and sea for current and future generations.
Dear Miss Kirsten and Miss Melinda Thank you for teaching me about Native Americans, plants, animals and habitats. The sketches and rubbings were fun, along with the hikes. Thank you for teaching us to pay attention to the world around us and look and listen to nature. I love the Del Monte Forest Conservancy and Indian Village!
- Charlie, Zoe and Mia Room 10, Robert Down Elementary, Pacific Grove
