Justyce Brant, Restoration Coordinator at The Lands Council
Environmental education is one of the most impactful programs at The Lands Council—and one of my absolute favorites! Our team is passionate about creating outdoor learning experiences that inspire a deeper sense of environmental stewardship while fostering meaningful connections between students and the natural world.
From planting trees to restore local watersheds to exploring snow science at the summit of Mt. Spokane, our activities empower students to engage with nature in ways that leave lasting impressions.
In this blog post, we’re honored to share heartfelt reflections from incredible teachers who have partnered with The Lands Council over the years. Their stories highlight the profound impact of outdoor education, both in and beyond the classroom. If these stories resonate with you, we invite you to support our environmental education programs through a donation. Or, consider partnering with TLC or another environmental organization to bring the wonders of nature to your child’s school.
Carrying Adam’s Spirit: In Memory and Motion
Krista Larsen, Ridgeline High School
For Krista Larsen, a dedicated AP Environmental Science teacher and former Board Member of The Lands Council, field trips are more than learning experiences—they’re life-changing opportunities.
“These trips are invaluable for my students,” Krista shares. “They bring classroom content to life through meaningful experiences that students carry with them for years. Many have pursued careers in environmental science, thanks in part to their involvement with The Lands Council.”
Krista recalls the transformative impact these outings have had on her students. Last year, one of her students interned with The Lands Council during the summer, inspired by their experiences. Others have gone on to publish research and articles in college, often citing these opportunities as pivotal moments in their journeys.
One of Krista’s favorite activities is snowshoeing. “Many of my students had never been to the mountains in winter, let alone gone snowshoeing,” she says. “They laughed, struggled, persevered, and smiled. Five glorious hours without phone service!”
But one memory stands out above the rest—a bittersweet moment of reflection and resilience.
“In January 2020, we lost a student, Adam, from my APES class in a car accident,” Krista recalls. “That year’s climb was harder—we all carried a little extra weight in our hearts. Adam had been so excited for the trip; he’d asked me about it multiple times since the start of the year. We knew we had to carry his spirit with us.”
On the trail, students faced their own challenges, from battling the cold to wrestling with snowshoe straps. But they persevered together. Before heading back down, the group paused in a spot of breathtaking beauty to reflect on Adam’s memory. “In that moment, we left a small piece of him behind, knowing he would have loved the view,” she says.
“I will always be grateful to The Lands Council for all they’ve taught me and the inspiration they’ve given my students,” Krista adds. “As long as I’m teaching, I’ll strive to make them part of my courses. And when I retire, I hope to volunteer, paying it forward so future generations can discover their passions.”
A Decade of Stewardship and Growth
Shannon Truitt, Mica Peak High School
Shannon Truitt has been partnering with The Lands Council since 2014, and her students’ lives—and the land—have been better for it.
“These trips teach students to respect and appreciate the beautiful land and water around us,” she explains. “Many students in alternative high schools face unique personal or social challenges, and spending time in nature has been shown to reduce stress, improve health, and foster a sense of peace and well-being, which can be especially valuable for these students. By participating in the land restoration activities, such as planting trees, it allows our students to see the direct results of their efforts. This can boost their confidence and give them a sense of accomplishment, especially when they may struggle to see progress in other areas of their lives.”
Shannon’s favorite memories involve building and repairing beaver dam analogs (BDAs). Watching her students return to these restoration sites a year or two later to see the improved creek shape and water levels has been nothing short of inspiring. “They see the direct results of their efforts,” Shannon says. “It’s a lesson in persistence, teamwork, and the impact they can have on their environment—and their community.”
A Dream of Shade and Beauty
Nate Ziegler, On Track Academy
For Nate Ziegler, planting trees is more than an environmental activity—it’s an act of hope.
“Helping young people wield their power in a way that could last for generations is impactful,” Nate reflects. He recalls a day when two students battled blisters to remove a stubborn rock from a designated tree-planting site. When they couldn’t do it alone, they sought help, eventually using a city arborist’s 3/4 ton truck to finish the task.
“That day, they believed the impossible could happen,” he says. “And they were part of making it possible—a dream of shade and beauty.”
Lessons in Snow and Science
Susan Brown, WIN Academy
For Susan Brown’s middle school students, field-based learning is a cornerstone of their education. Planting trees during an eclipse and attending “snow school” have become unforgettable highlights.
“These trips make science real,” Susan says. “They get to work with their hands, learn from experts, and give back to the community.”
Susan praises staff for their patience and expertise, noting how they make complex environmental topics accessible to students.
Inspiring the Next Generation of Stewards
What unites these teachers’ stories is the shared belief in the power of experiential learning. From planting trees to repairing ecosystems, these trips foster a deep sense of responsibility and connection in students.
As Krista Larsen aptly puts it, “These trips aren’t just about learning—they’re about growing. Students leave understanding their power to make meaningful change—in their environment and their lives.”
The Lands Council is proud to partner with schools like Ridgeline High School, Mica Peak High School, On Track Academy, and WIN Academy to bring these experiences to life. Together, we’re not just restoring land—we're building a lasting connection to the environment for future generations.
