Programs for High Schools – Service Learning & Day Trips

Service at April Hill Farm 

This half or full day program connects youth with the vegetable and flower gardens at April Hill Conservation Center youth learn the art of cultivating vegetable gardens, sustainable practices, and working in service to the local community. Learning about soil, water, sun, and seeds, this day on the farm will foster a connection to land and food. Through hands-on activities, youth learn the art of cultivating hand-scale vegetable farming. Beyond cultivating plants, youth cultivate a sense of responsibility and empathy as they contribute to local food security and assist with the building, planting and maintenance of gardens and garden beds in Berkshire County.  This program empowers youth to become environmentally conscious, socially responsible individuals, while fostering personal growth and community engagement.

Sample Day-
Arrive and Welcome
Greenagers Mission & Land Acknowledgement
Tour of April Hill and Conserved Land
Sowing Seeds, Planting Seedlings, Weeding
Garden Bed Preparation, Mulching, or Firewood Bank Chores
Reflection and Goodbyes

Service with Trails & Conservation Team

Our high school trails and conservation service learning program will provide an experience that immerses youth in the trails, forests, and waterways of Berkshire County, instilling a strong sense of connection to the land and environmental stewardship. Through hands-on activities such as trail maintenance, invasive species eradication, and habitat conservation, youth not only gain valuable ecological knowledge but also actively contribute to the preservation of our local ecosystems. As they work on conserved land  they will learn and work together, forming a deep connection to nature, their team and the communities they are working in. This program empowers youth to become advocates for conservation, equipping them with the skills and knowledge needed to protect our precious natural resources and leave a lasting positive impact on our environment.

Sample Day-
Arrive and Welcome
Greenagers Mission & Land Acknowledgement
Tour of April Hill Farm and Conserved Land
Trail maintenance and Clearing of Invasive Species
Leave No Trace Discussion
Bench Cut Trail at Bow Wow Woods
Reflection and Goodbyes

Hiking & Environmental Stewardship with Education

This half or full day hiking program is designed to guide youth through the diverse landscape of Berkshire County, giving them  a chance to connect with the local environment while studying waterways and geographical features. Through challenging physical activity we will support youth as they develop independence, confidence, empathy towards others, motor skills, self-discipline, decision-making and problem-solving skills. We will also foster a  connection to nature, local history, play, and exploration. This program encourages youth to step out of their comfort zones, inspiring a lifelong passion for adventure and the belief that they can accomplish difficult things through teamwork and perseverance.

Sample Day-
Arrive and Welcome
Greenagers Mission & Land Acknowledgement
Tour of April Hill Farm and Conserved Land
Depart to Trailhead
Hike back to April Hill
Reflection and Goodbyes

Service in the Trades & Stewardship with Pathways

This half or full day program connects youth with the historical buildings and grounds at April Hill Conservation Center and with projects in other Berkshire County partner organizations. Participation in this program  will allow youth to explore the building trades, hands-on craftsmanship and learn how to use a variety of tools and methods that are applied to historic and timber frame construction.  In the process of learning new skills, we will support youth as they develop independence, confidence, empathy towards others, motor skills, self-discipline, decision-making and problem-solving skills. This program encourages youth to step out of their comfort zones, inspiring a respect and interest in the trades.

Sample Day-
Arrive and Welcome
Greenagers Mission & Land Acknowledgement
Tour of April Hill Farm and Conserved Land
Skills Workshop
Service Learning Project
Reflection and Goodbyes

Interested in partnering with Greenagers to provide stewardship education to your school or group? Please contact Cynthia, Education Director.