NOS Mission

Nevada Outdoor School inspires exploration of the natural world, responsible stewardship of our habitat and dedication to community.
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Saturday, January 31, 2026

Nevada Outdoor School Receives $75,000 Grant from Nevada Gold Mines to Support Outdoor Education Across Rural Nevada

 


Winnemucca, NV – January 2026 – Nevada Outdoor School (NOS) is proud to announce it has received a $75,000 grant from Nevada Gold Mines to continue delivering high-quality outdoor education and community programs to youth and families across rural Northern Nevada. This continued investment strengthens access to hands-on learning experiences that promote health, wellness, environmental stewardship, and community connection.

The grant will support NOS’s 2025–2026 programming, including Nature in My World, a school-based outdoor education program serving K–8 students; Nature in the Park for children ages 4–7; and Nature Explorers Summer Camps for youth ages 4–17. NGM’s funding will also help sustain NOS’s growing community programs, including Outdoor Skills Workshops, Community Nature Clubs, and ongoing programs such as NOS Nomads Hiking & Walking Club, Time Spent Outdoors (TSO) Club, Young Naturalist Club, Nature Journaling Club, Homeschool Nature Club, and the Stewardship Club.

“This continued support from Nevada Gold Mines allows us to keep outdoor education accessible for rural families and schools that would otherwise have limited opportunities,” said Melanie Erquiaga, Executive Director of Nevada Outdoor School. “Together, we are helping young people build confidence, curiosity, and a lifelong connection to the natural world; while strengthening the communities we serve.”

"Outdoor education plays a critical role in building strong, healthy communities across rural Nevada,” said Henri Gonin, Managing Director for NGM. “Through our partnership with Nevada Outdoor School, we are proud to support hands-on learning opportunities that connect youth and families to the outdoors, foster environmental stewardship, and promote overall well-being."  

Funding from NGM helps cover critical expenses including programming and administrative staff, educator and AmeriCorps support, facilities, supplies, transportation, and training. These resources ensure NOS can continue reaching schools and communities across wide geographic areas; often requiring staff to travel long distances to bring outdoor education directly to rural students.

Beyond youth programming, Nevada Outdoor School also provides opportunities for adults and families to increase their Time Spent Outdoors through clubs, hikes, skill-building workshops, and stewardship projects. These programs support physical and mental well-being while fostering a stronger connection to Nevada’s public lands.

With continued support from partners like Nevada Gold Mines, Nevada Outdoor School remains committed to addressing nature deficit, building environmental awareness, and creating equitable access to outdoor experiences for rural Nevadans of all ages.

About Nevada Gold Mines
Nevada Gold Mines is the largest gold-producing complex in the world and is operated by Barrick Gold Corporation. The company is committed to supporting Nevada communities through investments in education, workforce development, and environmental sustainability.

For more information about Nevada Gold Mines, visit https://www.barrick.com/English/operations/nevada-gold-mines/default.aspx

About Nevada Outdoor School
Nevada Outdoor School is a nonprofit organization dedicated to inspiring exploration of the natural world, promoting responsible stewardship, and fostering community engagement through outdoor education programs across rural northern Nevada.

For more information about Nevada Outdoor School and its programs, visit nevadaoutdoorschool.org/home.aspx

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