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Stories of Hands-On Learning & Real-World Impact

Fostering Forests: Educating Students on the Importance of Forest Health and Taking Action to Cultivate Hope in Our Community

As the crisp fall air settled in and the buzz of a new school year kicked off, students gathered outside with one shared mission. And no,...

Caroline Milton

Dec 18, 2024

Forest Health Field Days: Students Taking Action to Improve the Health of Our Forests

Why is a healthy forest important? Is our forest healthy? Groups of students rotated through stations to dive deeper into these questions.

Brooke Landis

Nov 14, 2023

Action Fosters Hope: a Defensible Space Stewardship Day

“I am working with SWEP and the Truckee Fire District today. It makes me feel more safe, like I am responsible; like I am making an act...

Simone Tenorio

Oct 19, 2023

FOREST⇌FIRE: Re-evaluating our relationship with fire in our forests

SWEP worked to reeducate local 3rd grade students about fire and forest management.

nick19030

Jan 11, 2022

FOREST⇌FIRE Healthy Forests/ Defensible Space - Fall 2021

This year SWEP's FOREST⇌FIRE lesson included lessons on healthy forests, healthy vs. catastrophic wildfire, and defensible space.

Jenna Granger

Nov 17, 2021

FOREST⇌FIRE - Learning Resources

A children's book that highlights the importance of healthy fire for the forest, wildlife and watershed to be used as a teaching aid.

Jenna Granger

Jun 2, 2021

2 3

🎥 Relive the magic of the Dark Skies Exhibit opening reception! 🌌✨

Our 6th grade Eco Action students from SELS and ACMS wowed the crowd with artwork that sheds light on the importance of dark skies — from protecting wildlife to reducing light pollution.

This video captures the creativity, collaboration, and inspiration behind the exhibit. Huge thanks to Court Leve for beautifully filming and producing this piece — you truly brought the story to life! 🙌

🌙 Don’t miss the exhibit, now showing at Truckee Town Hall!

📍 In partnership with @townoftruckee @nevadacountyarts @tahoetruckeeusd @truckee_cultural_district @sierra_expeditionary_learning @acms_panthers

🎨 Watch the video + visit in person!

#DarkSkiesExhibit #EcoAction #SWEP #StudentArt #ArtForChange #TruckeeCulturalDistrict #EnvironmentalEducation #YouthVoices #LightPollutionAwareness #NevadaCountyArts #TTUSD #CourtLeve

🌿 Passionate About the Environment?
Looking for a fun, meaningful way to give back and use your skills?

We’re currently recruiting for our Board of Directors — and we’d love to meet community members who care deeply about environmental education, sustainability, and the future of the Tahoe-Truckee region. 💚

This is your chance to:
✔ Support impactful local programs
✔ Collaborate with a passionate team
✔ Help support students and protect the place we all love
✨ Your voice and experience can help shape real change.

Ready to make a difference? Reach out to learn more about joining our board! Email: info@4swep.org

#BoardRecruitment #EnvironmentalLeadership #GiveBack #TahoeTruckee #CommunityImpact #JoinUs #NonprofitBoard #ProtectWhatYouLove

🌍 One of the biggest takeaways from the Bioneers Conference: Leadership isn’t singular — it’s collective. 🤝 Real change happens when communities come together, share knowledge, and work toward a common goal.

As we begin planning for next school year, we’re more inspired than ever to strengthen the programs that connect students, schools, and our environment. 💚 At SWEP, we believe that when young people are empowered and communities unite, lasting impact follows.

Here’s to another year of learning, leading, and growing—together. 🌱

#Leadership #CommunityPower #SWEP #BioneersConference #CollectiveAction #StudentLeadership #NextGenChangeMakers #PlanningAhead #ActionFostersHope

🔥 Empowering Students. Supporting Residents. Building Resilience.

As we prepare for next school year’s Defensible Space programming, we’re proud to reflect on the impact this initiative has already made.

Through our partnership with Truckee Fire Protection District (TFDP) and Tahoe Truckee Unified School District (TTUSD), students learn about wildfire prevention, defensible space, and community service—then put that knowledge into action by helping residents in need.

Since 2023, over 400 students have improved defensible space across our community while becoming stewards of the land. Many bring these lessons home, sparking change in their own neighborhoods. 🌱💪
We thank our funding partners, Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation and Excellence in Education Foundation, for making this program possible.

👉 Know someone who could benefit from this program? Email: dspace@truckeefire.org

@truckeefire

#TruckeeFire #DefensibleSpace #WildfirePrevention #StudentStewards #CommunitySupport #DeadTreeFund #SWEP #TTUSD

🔥 Fire Ready Truckee Tahoe 🔥
🗓 Wednesday, July 9 | 🕓 4–7 PM
📍Community Recreation Center, 10981 Truckee Way, Truckee, CA

Ready for fire season? Come to Fire Ready Truckee Tahoe to learn more about wildfire resilience, home hardening, and community safety. Co-organized by Eastern Regional Firewise Coalition, Truckee Fire District, Sierra Watershed Education Partnerships, Tahoe Truckee Community Foundation, Tahoe Resource Conservation District, Contractors Association of Truckee Tahoe Community Project.

#FireReadyTruckeeTahoe #WildfireSafety #TruckeeEvents #CommunityStrong #DefensibleSpace #EmergencyPreparedness

Today we’re celebrating Terrie Hansen, a longtime SWEP volunteer, donor, and steadfast supporter of our mission. 💚

From leading student activities to supporting events and campaigns, Terrie brings heart, dedication, and a deep belief in the power of environmental education.

Her time, generosity, and encouragement have helped us reach more students, deepen our impact, and grow a stronger, greener community.

Thank you, Terrie, for being part of the SWEP family—you inspire us every day! 🌿👏

#SWEPCommunity #VolunteerAppreciation #DonorSpotlight #ThankYouTerrie #EnvironmentalEducation #GivingBack

🌞🌿 Looking for something fun (and meaningful) to do this summer?

SWEP’s Environmental Activity Booklet is packed with creative, hands-on ways for kids and families to stay engaged, explore the outdoors, and learn how to care for our Sierra ecosystems! 🏞️🖍️

📗 Perfect for summer break, the booklet includes activities to inspire young environmental stewards:
🎨 Nature journaling & eco-art
🌼 Botany Bingo
🔥 Learn about defensible space
🌱 Discover native species

📥 Download your free copy today and jump into a summer of discovery: www.4swep.org

#SWEPInspires #SummerNatureFun #EnvironmentalEducation #OutdoorLearning #NatureActivities #BotanyBingo #DefensibleSpace #NativePlants #EcoArt #SummerBreakIdeas #HandsOnLearning #YouthInNature

🐟🌲 SWEP’s Last Program of the Year: Fisheries Field Day at Pomin Park!

Third graders from Tahoe Lake and Kings Beach Elementary recently dove into the world of native fish and freshwater ecosystems during a hands-on learning day at Pomin Park.

Students explored the life cycle and conservation of the Lahontan Cutthroat Trout—Lake Tahoe's native trout species—visited the Lahontan National Fish Hatchery, and discovered how healthy habitats support native fish. 🐠💧

With interactive stations, expert guides, and an intro to fly fishing from Cast Hope, students got a firsthand experience connecting recreation and conservation. 🪱🎣

A huge thank you to TERC, Cast Hope, the Lahontan National Fish Hatchery, and our dedicated volunteers for making this incredible field program possible! 🙏

It was a day full of discovery, connection, and outdoor science in action—building knowledge and stewardship for our local watersheds. 🌿📚

@kbelions @tahoelakeelementaryschool @ucdavistahoe @casthope Lahontan National Fish Hatchery Complex

#FisheriesFieldDay #LahontanCutthroatTrout #OutdoorEducation #SWEP #LakeTahoe #WatershedEducation #3rdGradeScience #KingsBeachElementary #TahoeLakeElementary #HandsOnLearning #CastHope #FlyFishing #ScienceInTheField

🌲📚 Exploring Science at UC Berkeley’s Sagehen Creek Field Station!

This spring, 5th graders from Kings Beach, Truckee, Glenshire, SELS & Tahoe Lake Elementary joined SWEP’s year-round Sagehen Outdoor Education Program (SOEP)—diving into bird watching, insect observation, botany, soil science, wildlife tracking, and more at the stunning @sagehencreek Field Station. 🐾💧🌿

Students had the rare opportunity to learn from real scientists conducting groundbreaking research at Sagehen, including:
📸 Vishal Subramanyan – National Geographic Young Explorer, UC Berkeley undergrad, and wildlife photographer whose work with the California Wolf Project uses camera traps and storytelling to raise awareness about California’s recovering wolf populations.
🐺 Christina Winters – Wildlife biologist and Master’s student at UC Berkeley studying wolf ecology and conservation on working lands, with experience ranging from California Fish & Wildlife to jaguar research in Central America.
🐝 Nina Sokolov – Ph.D. student at UC Berkeley researching how viruses spill over between managed honeybees and native wild bees. Nina samples bees across diverse landscapes to better understand pollinator health.
💧 Jen Natali – Ph.D. student in Landscape Architecture & Environmental Planning, specializing in geomorphology, hydrology, plant ecology, and remote sensing. Jen studies groundwater systems to understand how water shapes our ecosystems.

Huge thanks to our partners at TINS, UC Berkeley, TTUSD educators, and the amazing SOEP team for making this unforgettable experience possible! 💚

🔗 Learn more about the California Wolf Project ➡️ www.wildlife.berkeley.edu/cawolfproject

@ucberkeleyofficial @sierra_expeditionary_learning @tahoelakeelementaryschool Glenshire Elementary School PTO @truckeeelementary @kbelions @tahoenaturalists @tahoetruckeeusd

#SagehenCreek #UCBSagehen #SOEP #SWEP #OutdoorEducation #PlaceBasedLearning #EnvironmentalEducation #HandsOnScience #ScienceInNature #CaliforniaWolves #PollinatorHealth #WolfConservation #5thGradeScience #StudentStewards #YearRoundLearning

Claim your spot before it's too late — registration closes June 22nd!

🌿 Junior Explorers Summer Camp
Spots available for July 14–17 | Ages 9–12

Join us for SWEP’s Junior Explorers Summer Camp — where kids connect with nature through science, games, art, and outdoor adventure! 🌲🌞

📍 Learn more + register: https://www.4swep.org/summer-camps-main

#JuniorExplorers #SWEP #SummerCamp #EnvironmentalEducation #TahoeKids #OutdoorLearning #NatureCamp #ConnectToNature #TruckeeTahoe

🌱💚 As the school year ends, we're celebrating our amazing SWEP sustainability clubs—from Green Teams in elementary to EcoAction in middle school and Envirolution in high school.

These students tackled real issues like waste, light pollution, and climate anxiety through art, advocacy, and action. From lake-trash sculptures to the iconic Trashion Show, they’ve inspired us all.

👏 Thank you for proving that action fosters hope. The future is in good hands. 🌍

👉 Read more on our blog... Link in Bio!

#SWEP #YouthForThePlanet #StudentLeaders #ClimateAction #TrashionShow #LakeTahoe #DarkSkiesMovement #ActionFostersHope

🌊💚 Turning Trash Into Triumph! 💚🌊
Students at North Tahoe Middle School teamed up with Clean Up The Lake to tackle the litter problem in Lake Tahoe—through art! 🎨♻️

As part of the Shane McConkey Eco Challenge, our EcoAction Club created a striking sculpture made entirely of trash recovered from the lake. The goal? Raise awareness about the impact of pollution in our beautiful Tahoe environment—and they nailed it!

🏆 Their creation took 1st place in the Green Circle Division, and you can catch it on display this summer at the Gatekeepers Museum in Tahoe City!

👏 Huge congrats to our students for using creativity to inspire change and for showing what environmental leadership looks like! Read our blog at our link in bio!

@ntslakers @shanemcconkeyecochallenge

#EcoActionClub #ShaneMcConkeyEcoChallenge #LakeTahoe #CleanUpTheLake #EnvironmentalArt #GreenLeaders #NorthTahoeMiddleSchool #TrashToTreasure #TahoeProud #YouthForThePlanet

Huge shoutout to Envirolution students Rory and Serafina for winning 3rd place in the Shane McConkey EcoChallenge – Green Circle Division with their incredible upcycled clothing project! 👗🌍

Their practical designs transformed discarded fabrics into a statement of environmental responsibility—and a winning one at that! 💚✨

Their work is a powerful example of how crafting for activism—craftivism—can spark conversation, inspire action, and make sustainability stylish. We’re so proud of their creativity, innovation, and leadership. Keep using your voice—and your vision—to drive change!

At SWEP, we believe art is not just expression—it’s advocacy. ♻️🌟 Creativity is a cornerstone of our programming because we know it can lead to real-world solutions, especially in the fight for a more sustainable future.

@shanemcconkeyecochallenge

#EcoChallenge #UpcycledFashion #Trashion #YouthLeaders #Envirolution #SustainabilityInStyle #ArtAsAdvocacy

We’re excited to announce that the 5th/6th grade class at Forest Charter School has won this year’s Snowpack Prediction Contest—congratulations!

This fun and educational contest is part of the Winter Discovery Center programming at our yurt at Tahoe XC, where each visiting class gets to make predictions about the season’s snowpack depth and its SWE (snow water equivalent). SWE is a crucial measurement that helps us estimate how much water will be available in the summer once the snow melts.

A big thank you to our partners at Winter Wildlands Alliance, a national non-profit working to inspire and empower people to protect America’s wild snowscapes, for helping make this program possible.

And a huge shoutout to Zano’s Pizzeria for generously donating pizzas to the winning class—what a great way to celebrate!

forestcharter @zanostruckee_ @tahoexc

#SnowpackPrediction #OutdoorEducation #ScienceInNature #EnvironmentalEducation #STEMlearning #PlaceBasedLearning #TahoeXC #ForestCharterSchool #SWEP #WinterWildlandsAlliance #ZanosPizzeria
#FutureScientists #SnowScience #HandsOnLearning #CelebrateLearning #PizzaPrize

🌿 We Have Openings!
July 14–17 | Ages 9–12

Join us for SWEP’s Junior Explorers Summer Camp — where kids connect with nature through science, games, art, and outdoor adventure! 🌲🌞

🏕️ Based out of our 30-ft yurt at Tahoe Cross Country, campers will explore forests, creeks, and streams — learning, discovering, and having tons of fun along the way.

🎨🌊 From environmental science to creative play, each day is a new adventure in stewardship and summer joy.

💚 Scholarships available!
📍 Learn more + register: https://www.4swep.org/summer-camps-main

#JuniorExplorers #SWEP #SummerCamp #EnvironmentalEducation #TahoeKids #OutdoorLearning #NatureCamp #ConnectToNature #TruckeeTahoe

🌊♻️ Green Team Tip of the Week from Kings Beach Elementary!

Did you know that trash on the ground can end up in our lakes and rivers? Every little piece matters—picking up litter helps protect our watershed and the wildlife that depends on it!

💡 Green Team Tip: Carry a small bag on walks to collect trash and recyclables—it's an easy way to be a watershed hero!

Great job, Kings Beach students, for leading the way in keeping our community clean and our waterways healthy! 🌿🐟

@kbelions

#GreenTeamTip #KingsBeachElementary #WatershedCleanup #YouthLeadership #KeepItClean #SWEP #LakeTahoeStewardship

🎓 Student Spotlight: Sarah Kenny 🌿

This World Environment Day, we’re thrilled to celebrate Sarah Kenny, a graduating senior from North Tahoe High School, whose passion for sustainability has been an inspiration since elementary school.

Sarah has been involved in SWEP Sustainability Clubs since elementary school, participating in Green Teams, Eco Action, and now Envirolution—always leading with creativity, commitment, and purpose.

As President of the NTHS Sustainability Club for the past three years, she’s helped drive environmental action and awareness throughout her school and community.

Last year, Sarah chose SWEP as her nonprofit beneficiary for Tahoe SnowFest, raising an incredible $1,500 to support our mission.

This year, SWEP proudly established the Envirolution Club Award to recognize students who have shown exceptional dedication to environmental advocacy through their involvement in the Envirolution Sustainability Club. Over the course of their high school careers, these students have completed more than 100 hours of community service, promoting environmental awareness and implementing eco-friendly practices to help create a more sustainable future.

As part of this celebration, Sarah crafted graduation cords from upcycled trash bags for club members to wear at their ceremonies—a powerful and visible symbol of their commitment to sustainability in action.
💙❤️ The cords were created in blue for North Tahoe High and red for Truckee High, adding a meaningful and sustainable touch to this year’s graduation celebrations.

Next up: Sarah will be studying Ecotourism at Cal State Monterey Bay, continuing her mission to connect people and the planet through sustainable and responsible travel. 🌊🌍

Sarah, your innovation, leadership, and heart for the planet make you a true changemaker. Congratulations—we can’t wait to see where your path leads next!

@northtahoehs @nths_envirolution @kenny5302007 @envirolutiontahoe

#SWEPYouthLeaders #SustainabilityInAction #StudentSpotlight #NorthTahoeHigh #Envirolution #Graduation2025 #EcoLeaders #CSUMB #Ecotourism #WomenInSustainability

🎉 It’s almost here — the 22nd Annual Truckee Day! 🧤🌎
Join your neighbors for a town-wide beautification day celebrating community pride and environmental stewardship.

🗓️ Saturday, June 8
🧹 Clean-up crews, music, BBQs, and that unbeatable Truckee spirit!

SWEP will be there too — come say hi! We’ll be sharing how students are making a difference through local environmental programs and stewardship projects. 🌱

Let’s come together to keep Truckee beautiful — for today, and for the next generation. 💚

📍More info: KeepTruckeeGreen.org/TruckeeDay

#TruckeeDay #SWEP #CommunityCleanup #EnvironmentalStewardship #KeepTruckeeBeautiful #22YearsStrong #GetInvolved

🌊🐟 Lake Creature Crunch with Clean Up The Lake! 🐟🌊

At our Science Festival, students dove into the world of aquatic ecology at the Lake Creature Crunch station, created and led by Clean Up The Lake!

Through a hands-on simulation, kids explored how **plastic pollution—especially microplastics—** can be mistaken for food and ingested by fish. 🧃🔍 It was an eye-opening experience that helped students understand the real impact of pollution on lake ecosystems and why clean water matters.

Huge thanks to Clean Up The Lake for leading this powerful and engaging station—and for inspiring the next generation of lake protectors! 💧💙

@cleanupthelake

#ScienceFestival #LakeCreatureCrunch #CleanUpTheLake #SWEP #PlasticPollution #Microplastics #STEMeducation #AquaticScience #HandsOnLearning #ProtectOurLakes #EnvironmentalAwareness

Find SWEP at the #MakerShow on June 8th and explore your creativity at @truckeeroundhouse's biggest outreach and fundraiser of the year! At the Maker Show, YOU get to be the artist; try screenprinting, sewing, wood turning, laser engraving, electronics, and so much more.

Now larger than ever before, you can spend the day viewing large-scale art, shopping the vendor market, watching live demos, eating at local food trucks, trying your luck in a raffle, or bidding in the robust hand-crafted silent auction.

We hope to see you there!

#BeTheArtist #GetCreative #TrySomethingNew #TruckeeRoundhouse #TruckeeMakers #MakerShow

🎉 A huge THANK YOU to the Tahoe Truckee Excellence in Education Foundation for their generous support in providing materials for our science festivals! 🔬🧪 Your commitment to hands-on learning helps spark curiosity and inspire the next generation of scientists and problem-solvers.

We’re so grateful for your continued partnership! 💙

@excellence_in_education

#STEMeducation #ThankYou #ExcellenceInEducation #ScienceFestival #HandsOnLearning

🏔️❄️ Avalanche Science with Winter Wildlands Alliance! ❄️🏔️

At the Science Festival, students became snow scientists at our Avalanche Science Station, created in partnership with Winter Wildlands Alliance!

Using a hands-on Avalanche Simulation Board—generously provided by Winter Wildlands Alliance—and snow-like materials (sugar, flour, and potato flakes!), students explored how slope angle, terrain type, and snowpack layers affect avalanche risk. They investigated real-world conditions to better understand what causes avalanches—and how to stay safe in snowy environments. 🧠🔬

Huge thanks to Winter Wildlands Alliance for equipping us with tools that bring mountain science to life! 🏔️🧊

@winterwildlandsalliance Winter Wildlands Alliance

#ScienceFestival #AvalancheScience #WinterWildlandsAlliance #SWEP #SnowScience #STEMeducation #MountainSafety #HandsOnLearning #TahoeWinter #EnvironmentalEducation

🌊🧪 Exploring Earth Processes at the Water’s Edge

Second graders from Kings Beach and Tahoe Lake Elementary recently brought science to life on the shores of Lake Tahoe—with the lake’s stunning blue waters as their classroom backdrop! 💙🏞️

Through sandcastle building and beach exploration, students learned about Earth processes like erosion, weathering, and the movement of water. It was hands-on science in one of the most beautiful learning environments imaginable.

This outdoor experience not only deepened their understanding of natural processes—it also sparked curiosity, joy, and a stronger connection to the place they call home. 🌍🏰

#SandcastleScience #EarthProcesses #OutdoorLearning #LakeTahoe #EnvironmentalEducation #SWEP #HandsOnScience #2ndGradeScience #KingsBeachElementary #TahoeLakeElementary

🔥🏠 Thank You to Our Fire-Smart Partners! 🏠🔥

A huge thank you to the University of Nevada, Reno’s Living With Fire program for lending us the incredible Ember House, and to the Truckee Fire Protection District for leading this impactful station at the Science Festival!

The Ember House is a hands-on activity that teaches students (and their families!) about wildfire ember safety. Kids tossed beanbag “embers” at a model house to identify vulnerable spots like dry gutters, unscreened vents, and flammable plants—turning wildfire preparedness into an unforgettable, interactive experience. 🌲💨

We’re so grateful for this partnership and for bringing fire science and community safety to life in such a creative way!

@truckeefire @nevadalwf

#ScienceFestival #EmberHouse #LivingWithFire #TruckeeFire #SWEP #WildfireAwareness #FireSafetyEducation #HandsOnLearning #BeEmberAware #STEMeducation #CommunityPreparedness

💧💡 Water Conservation Wisdom from SELS Students! 💡💧

This week, students learned just how precious our water resources are—did you know that less than 1% of Earth's freshwater is available for human use? 😮

SELS students stepped up to share smart, everyday tips for reducing water waste and protecting this vital resource. From shorter showers to turning off the tap while brushing, these young conservationists are leading by example! 💙🌎

@sierra_expeditionary_learning Sierra Expeditionary Learning School @truckeedonnerpud

#WaterConservation #SWEP #STEMeducation #SELS #StudentVoices #SaveWater #EcoTips #EveryDropCounts #EnvironmentalEducation #YouthLeadership #SustainabilityInAction

SELS, Kings Beach and Tahoe Lake Green Teams learned a surprising fact—while 70% of Earth’s surface is covered in water, less than 1% is available for human use! 😲

To help raise awareness, students created Water Conservation Fortune Tellers filled with helpful tips on how we can all cut back on water use in our daily lives. 💦✨

Check out these awesome pics of our student changemakers are making a splash for sustainability! 💚🌱

@selstruckee @kbelions @tahoelakeelementaryschool

#GreenTeam #SWEP #WaterConservation #EnvironmentalEducation #YouthLeadership #SustainabilityInAction #SaveWater #EveryDropCounts #HandsOnLearning

🌲 Want to call the forest your office?

Join us for a Forest Careers Salon tonight, Thursday, May 22 from 5:30–7:00 PM (networking until 7:30 PM) at the Steve Randall Community Center – 10981 Truckee Way, Truckee.

Explore the growing forest economy—from fire mitigation to innovative wood and biomass products—and learn how forest-based careers can strengthen the Tahoe-Truckee economy.

🎤 Featuring:
Courtney Cagle – Foundation for California Community Colleges
Kristin York – Sierra Business Council
Lydell Wyatt – Washoe Tribe of CA/NV
Melissa Mohler – SWEP

✅ Register now: tinyurl.com/MayForestSalon

#ForestCareers #TahoeTruckee #SierraJobs #ClimateResilience #ForestEconomy #SWEP #WorkforceDevelopment #LocalJobs

🌱✨ Glenshire Green Team’s Do One Thing Challenge! ✨🌱

Our incredible Green Team students are taking action for the planet by choosing to do one thing that helps the environment—whether it’s turning off lights, picking up trash, or riding your bike. 🌎💚

These small, everyday choices add up to big impact, and our students are leading the way with simple acts of sustainability. What’s your one thing? 🌿

Glenshire Elementary School PTO

#GreenTeam #DoOneThing #SWEP #SustainabilityInAction #StudentVoices #EnvironmentalEducation #EcoTips #YouthLeadership #ClimateAction #EveryActionCounts

🕵️‍♀️🌱 Compost Detectives at Work! 🌱🕵️‍♂️

At the Science Festival, students became Compost Detectives, exploring what compost is and testing different soil samples to discover which is best for growing seeds. 🌿

They also learned how Placer County separates food waste from garbage at its Materials Recovery Facility (MRF) to create compost—keeping organic waste out of landfills and reducing methane emissions. ♻️💨

With 133 billion pounds of food wasted annually in the U.S., activities like this help raise awareness and inspire change. Let’s Stop Food Waste and grow a greener future! 🌎

@placercounty

#CompostDetectives #SWEP #PlacerCounty #ScienceFestival #StopFoodWaste #MRF #STEMeducation #WasteReduction #Composting #HandsOnLearning

🎉 Happy Birthday to our amazing Field Instructor, Brooke! 🎂🌿

Your passion for the environment, dedication to education, and inspiring energy make every day in the field brighter — you make a lasting impact on everyone you meet.

Wishing you a day filled with sunshine, adventure, and all the things you love! 💚🌎

#HappyBirthdayBrooke #SWEPteam #OutdoorEducator #EnvironmentalHero #CelebrateNature

🐟 A couple of weeks ago, our Trout in the Classroom tanks were filled with Lahontan cutthroat trout eggs, marking the start of an exciting learning journey for local students!

Through this hands-on program, students are exploring watershed science, cold-water habitats, and the importance of protecting native species.

🎣 Fun fact: Lahontan cutthroat trout are the only trout species native to the Lake Tahoe Basin. These remarkable fish thrive in cold, clear mountain waters and are listed as a threatened species under the Endangered Species Act.

We’re incredibly grateful to our program partners who make this experience possible, including:
▪South Tahoe Public Utility District (STPUD) and UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center (TERC), our core program implementers
▪Lahontan National Fish Hatchery Complex, who provided the trout eggs
▪Trout Unlimited, for generously funding the classroom tanks
▪California Department of Fish and Wildlife, for their ongoing support and collaboration

Together, we’re helping the next generation connect with conservation and the unique ecosystems of the Lake Tahoe Basin.

@ucdavistahoe UC Davis Tahoe Environmental Research Center @southtahoepud
@troutunlimited Trout Unlimited
@californiadfw

#TroutInTheClassroom #LahontanCutthroatTrout #SWEP #WatershedEducation #ColdWaterFish #ConservationInAction #NativeSpecies #LahontanNationalFishHatcheryComplex #UCDavisTERC

🎙️ SWEP on the Tahoe Tap Podcast! 🌲

Ever wonder what inspires our work and fuels our passion for environmental education? We had the amazing opportunity to share SWEP’s story on the Tahoe Tap Podcast!

Tune in to hear about our work with local students, our environmental impact, and the vision that drives our mission forward. It’s the perfect listen for your next walk or drive! 🚶‍♀️🚗

🎧 Listen to the Tahoe Tap Podcast, Episode 63, at our link in bio.
We’d love to hear what you think—let’s keep the conversation going!

#SWEP #TahoeTapPodcast #EnvironmentalEducation #StudentVoices #CommunityImpact #SustainabilityInAction #NonprofitStories #LakeTahoe

🌟 Family Science Night Fun! 🌟

Our Family Science Nights are an exciting part of the SWEP Science Festival experience.

It was a joy to see students and their families dive into hands-on activities and engaging experiments together. Watching curiosity and creativity come alive through science is what these nights are all about!

Thank you to everyone who joined us for these unforgettable evenings of discovery—we loved learning and exploring with you, and we can’t wait to do it again next year!

@tahoelakeelementaryschool @glenshirepto @truckeeelementary @kbelions #inclineelementary

#FamilyScienceNight #SWEP #STEMeducation #HandsOnLearning #ScienceIsFun #CommunityLearning #ActionFostersHope

🌎💫 Trashion Show at Truckee Elementary! 💫🌎

A huge THANK YOU to the amazing Envirolution students from Truckee and North Tahoe High Schools for putting on a creative, inspiring, and impactful show! Your talent and commitment to sustainability wowed the crowd. ♻️✨

We’re also so grateful to the Green Teamers from Truckee Elementary & SELS for showing up with enthusiasm and support — your dedication to the planet shines bright! 💚🌿

And of course, big thanks to Tacos Jalisco in Truckee for providing delicious burritos for our hardworking high school performers — you kept the crew energized! 🌯🙌

An unforgettable day celebrating youth leadership, environmental action, and trashion-forward fashion!

@truckeehigh North Tahoe High School @truckeeelementary Sierra Expeditionary Learning School @tahoetruckeeusd

#TrashionShow #Envirolution #TruckeeElementary #SELSGreenTeam #SustainableFuture #TacosJalisco #GreenTeamPower

🌟 It’s Teacher Appreciation Week! 🌟
🥾 Field Instructor Spotlight: Big Thanks to Nick

Nick is always up for an adventure—and always cracking a joke while he’s at it! His love for the outdoors and great sense of humor help students feel at ease while learning and exploring. Whether it’s snowing, raining, or sunny, Nick shows up with a grin and keeps spirits high. Thanks for keeping it fun, Nick—you make the outdoors even better! 😄

#TeacherAppreciationWeek #ThankYouNick #SWEPFieldInstructor #LearningWithLaughter

🌟 It’s Teacher Appreciation Week! 🌟
🌞 Field Instructor Spotlight: Highlighting Caroline

Caroline’s energy is absolutely contagious! Always smiling, always connecting, she brings warmth, positivity, and enthusiasm to every student interaction. Her personable nature makes learning outside feel exciting and accessible for all. Thank you, Caroline, for your joy, your laughter, and the light you bring to our programs! ✨

#TeacherAppreciationWeek #SWEPStrong #ThankYouCaroline #OutdoorLearningChampion

🌟 It’s Teacher Appreciation Week! 🌟
❄️ Field Instructor Spotlight: Shoutout to Conor

Conor’s calm, steady presence makes a big impact in our programming. His quiet confidence, thoughtful approach, and great sense of humor create a welcoming space for students to learn and explore. Whether helping build a quinzee or sharing fun facts about local wildlife, Conor leads with grounded confidence. We’re so lucky to have him on the team. Thank you, Conor! 💚

#SWEPInstructorAppreciation #ThankYouConor #NatureWithHeart

🌟 It’s Teacher Appreciation Week! 🌟
🌿 Field Instructor Spotlight: Celebrating Brooke

Brooke brings a level of thoughtfulness and organization that keeps every field day running smoothly. Whether prepping materials or guiding students through hands-on activities, she ensures everything is intentional, educational, and fun. Her meticulous nature and calm presence make her an essential part of the SWEP team. Thank you, Brooke, for all the care and clarity you bring to outdoor education! 🙌

#TeacherAppreciationWeek #SWEPStaff #ThankYouBrooke #OutdoorLearningLeader

🌱 Glenshire Elementary Green Team in Action! 🌱

Did you know? At Glenshire, we’re helping reduce food waste by using Share Carts in the lunchroom! 🥗🍎 Uneaten food that’s still safe to eat is shared with others who may need it. It's a simple, sustainable way to keep food out of the trash and make sure nothing goes to waste.

Let’s work together to be more eco-friendly and share the love! 💚

@glenshirepto Glenshire Elementary School PTO @tahoetruckeeusd @truckeetahoeairport @keeptruckeegreen

#SWEP #ReduceWaste #GreenTeam #SustainabilityInSchools #ShareCarts #FoodWaste #EcoFriendly #GlenshireElementary #SustainableFuture

🌱 Big shoutout to the SELS Green Team students for spreading sustainability in the sweetest way! 💚

This awesome crew handed out reusable bento boxes to 2nd graders this week, encouraging waste-free lunches and eco-friendly habits. 🍱♻️

A huge thank you to the Truckee Tahoe Airport Community Partner for sponsoring the bentos and supporting student-led sustainability efforts!

@truckeetahoeairport

#SELSGreenTeam #SWEP #TruckeeTahoeAirport #WasteFreeLunch #EcoLeaders #SustainabilityStartsYoung #CommunitySupport

🌌✨ Student Art Shines in the Dark Skies Exhibit! ✨🌌

Today marked the opening reception of the Dark Skies Exhibit at the Town of Truckee Exhibition Hall, featuring artwork by 6th grade Eco Action students from SELS and ACMS. 🎨🌠

Students' paintings reflect a deep understanding of why dark skies matter—from protecting wildlife to reducing light pollution—and showcase the power of art as environmental advocacy.

This inspiring project was made possible through collaboration with Nevada County Arts, the Town of Truckee, Truckee Cultural District, and Truckee Tahoe Unified School District.

Stop by Truckee Town Hall to experience these thoughtful works in person! 🌙💫

@townoftruckee @nevadacountyarts @tahoetruckeeusd @truckee_cultural_district @sierra_expeditionary_learning @acms_panthers

#DarkSkiesExhibit #EcoAction #SWEP #StudentArt #TruckeeCulturalDistrict #NevadaCountyArts #TTUSD #LightPollutionAwareness #YouthVoices #EnvironmentalEducation #ArtForChange

🌍💚 Big THANKS to everyone who made our Earth Day Raffle a success! Your support—through prize donations, ticket purchases, and community spirit—not only made the event fun, but also helped fund SWEP’s climate science, outdoor fieldwork, and environmental education programs for local students. 🙌

A very special shout-out to Palisades Tahoe for their generous in-kind donations and continued support of both the Trashion Show and the raffle fundraiser. We are also incredibly grateful to Truckee Roundhouse for providing space, tools, and expert guidance in the costume design process—we couldn’t have done it without you! 🎨👗🛠️

We’re so proud to be part of a community that champions sustainability, creativity, and hands-on learning. 🌱✨

@palisadestahoe @truckeeroundhouse

#ThankYou #EarthDay #SWEP #EnvironmentalEducation #CommunitySupport #TrashionShow #PalisadesTahoe #TruckeeRoundhouse #SustainabilityInAction

🌿 Kings Beach Green Team in Action! 🌿

Our KBE Green Team is spreading sustainability in the classroom! 🎉 We’re giving out bento boxes to 2nd graders to teach them about zero waste lunches. The excitement was contagious – the students couldn’t wait to bring their lunches the next day and even said, “We can’t wait to be in the Green Team when we’re older!” 💚

We’re so proud to inspire the next generation of eco-warriors! 🌍

@kbelions @tahoetruckeeusd @keeptruckeegreen @truckeetahoeairport

#ZeroWasteLunch #GreenTeamKids #SustainabilityInSchools #EcoFriendly #KingsBeachGreenTeam #NextGenEcoWarriors #SustainableFuture

It’s the Earth Day Festival at Palisades Tahoe!
Find our booth by the main stage and enter to win amazing prizes in our Earth Day Raffle: lift tickets, gift cards, gear, jewelry, and more… all up for grabs!
Trashion Show kicks off at 2 PM — raffle to follow! Let’s celebrate and make a difference! @palisadestahoe

Today’s the day! Join us at Palisades Tahoe for Earth Day Festival celebrations!
Visit SWEP’s booth - run by our fabulous board members - by the main stage to enter the raffle for some fabulous prizes.
Trashion Show starts at 2 PM — raffle winners announced right after! @palisadestahoe

Celebrate Earth Day with us at Palisades Tahoe!
Stop by SWEP’s booth by the main stage to enter the Earth Day Raffle — fabulous prizes are up for grabs!
Don’t miss the Trashion Show at 2 PM, with the raffle right after. See you there! @palisadestahoe

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