Butler SWCD Education Programs
Lynn White: whitelr@butlercountyohio.org

(513) 887-3720

The role of the Butler SWCD Education Specialist first became a permanent position in 1988. The Education Specialist assists educators interested in activities, resources, and lessons regarding earth science and natural resources. Contact Lynn White to register for programs or request further information about any aspect of the Butler SWCD Education Program. Programs are free of charge, with the exception for some workshops where additional materials are provided.

Interested in activities, resources, and lessons regarding earth sciences and natural resources? Contact Lynn White to schedule programs or request further information. Programs are free of charge, with the exception for some workshops where additional materials may be provided.

Workshops and In-Services
Full day workshops (six or more hours) and introductory programs (three or fewer hours) are available. Upcoming workshops are announced in the Accent on Conservation newsletter, press releases, and our website www.butlercountyohio.org/conservation.

Materials and Lending Library
Accent on Conservation is the education newsletter of the Butler SWCD. It lists upcoming workshops, contest, public events, as well as different resources and classroom activities. Newsletters are distributed through school districts and by mail, three times during the school year. To receive a copy by mail, contact the Butler SWCD office. To receive a copy by email, contact Lynn White at whitelr@bultercountyohio.org.

The Lending Library contains books, videos, posters, lesson binders, and pamphlets on a variety of earth and life science topics. Items can be signed out for seven days. Seine nets and water quality test kits are available for loan. Free instructional sessions are available, but not necessary for borrowing these items. Classroom props such as the Enviroscape, stream table, and groundwater model may not be borrowed, but may be requested as a part of a presentation.

Classroom Programs and Contests
Classroom presentations are available on a variety of topics, such as: soil study, water study, worms, composting, trees, pollution, etc. Click here to see programs available.

Land lab (outdoor classroom) information and assistance are frequently requested services. Meetings, development assistance, and publications are free for the asking.

The Butler SWCD sponsors various contests for students and teachers:

• Poster Contest- This is open to grades 3-6. Students interpret the theme and use any flat medium to portray their own thoughts.

• Envirothon- This national academic contest is open to high school students interested in being tested in the areas of soils, aquatics, wildlife, forestry, and current environmental issues.

• Conservation Teacher of the Year- Teachers who focus on conservation education are recognized for their accomplishments by being nominated by their peers. This is a national event, sponsored by the National Association of Conservation Districts.

Complete lists of all contest rules and regulations are available upon request.

Grants and Scholarships

• Forestry Camp- Two scholarships are allotted for high school students interested in attending an academic summer camp at Camp Muskingum.

• Land Lab Grants- Two $300 grants are available for Schools who are developing new outdoor classrooms, or improving old ones. This money is to be used toward materials, equipment, and educational resources.

• College Scholarships A non-renewable $500 grant is available for college students with a conservation or natural resource course of study.

Applications and additional information regarding the above programs are available upon request.