Outdoor Science Education Programs (OSEP)
Our Outdoor Science Education Programs provide nature-based outdoor education for thousands of children each year. Our programs focus on getting kids outside, where they learn about nature, art, Indigenous culture and how to responsibly recreate and become stewards of the land and waters around them. The programs are place-based at SNARL and Valentine Camp. All learning takes place outdoors and activities for different grade levels focus on nature-based knowledge and awareness through the lenses of art, traditional ecological knowledge, and exploration. Our program aims to deepen the public understanding and appreciation of the Eastern Sierra and foster continued environmental stewardship of this ecologically and economically important region. The current program is divided into schoolyear field trips for elementary school children from all over Mono and Inyo Counties, weeklong summer ‘camps’, and after school programs.
![](https://snarl.nrs.ucsb.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMG_4877-1024x768.jpg)
After School Program
In spring we offer a 6 week afterschool program called “Fireworks” focused on Fire Ecology on Mondays from March to April
![](https://snarl.nrs.ucsb.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/IMG_7918-1024x768.jpg)
Summer Program
The summer program focuses on age-appropriate science concepts and is geared for the next school year’s age group. Sign-ups start in March
![](https://snarl.nrs.ucsb.edu/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/3BB64A5C-4690-461A-B884-086847BA9363-1024x768.jpeg)
School Year Field Trips
We provide age-appropriate, field-based learning opportunities at both SNARL and Valentine Reserves.
![Least Chipmunk](https://snarl.nrs.ucsb.edu/wp-content/uploads/2022/08/Least_Chipmunk-1024x683.jpeg)
Virtual Programs
Virtual programs can be accessed from anywhere, so students can participate no matter where they live.