Getting Outdoors Sustainably: How to Explore Nature with Care

As more people embrace the benefits of spending time in nature, it’s essential to ensure our outdoor adventures don’t harm the very environments we love. Sustainable outdoor practices allow us to enjoy the beauty of the natural world while preserving it for future generations. Here are some tips to help you get outdoors sustainably and responsibly:

Plan Ahead and Be Prepared

Sustainable outdoor exploration starts with good planning. Research your destination to learn about rules, guidelines, and potential environmental sensitivities. Pack appropriately, bringing reusable items, weather-appropriate gear, and enough food and water to avoid emergencies that could strain local resources.

Leave No Trace

The Leave No Trace (LNT) principles are the gold standard for sustainable outdoor ethics. These seven principles encourage practices like minimizing campfire impact, traveling on durable surfaces, and disposing of waste properly. By following these guidelines, you can reduce your impact on the environment and help maintain the integrity of natural spaces.

Choose Eco-Friendly Gear

When selecting outdoor equipment, prioritize sustainability. Look for gear made from recycled or responsibly sourced materials. Durable, high-quality items last longer and reduce waste over time. Many brands now offer options certified for sustainability and ethical production.

Travel Sustainably

Getting to your outdoor destination can significantly impact the environment. Reduce your carbon footprint by carpooling, taking public transportation, or choosing closer-to-home adventures. Consider biking or hiking to your destination when possible.

Stick to Designated Trails

Wandering off established trails can damage fragile ecosystems, contribute to soil erosion, and disturb wildlife habitats. Stay on marked paths to protect native plants and animals and prevent unnecessary damage to the environment.

Respect Wildlife

Admire wildlife from a distance and never feed animals. Human food can harm their health and disrupt natural behaviors. Respect their habitats by keeping noise levels low and avoiding areas marked as sensitive or off-limits.

Use Reusables and Avoid Single-Use Plastics

Pack your adventure supplies in reusable containers. Bring a refillable water bottle, metal utensils, and reusable food storage options to minimize waste. Avoid single-use plastics like disposable water bottles, utensils, or snack bags.

Minimize Campfire Impact

While campfires are an enjoyable part of outdoor adventures, they can be harmful if not handled responsibly. Use portable stoves for cooking, and if fires are permitted, keep them small and within designated fire rings. Always ensure your fire is completely extinguished before leaving.

Support Local Conservation Efforts

Contribute to organizations that protect and maintain outdoor spaces. Many parks and trails rely on volunteers and donations to preserve their beauty. Participating in clean-up events or trail maintenance days is a great way to give back.

Educate Yourself and Others

Understanding the environment, you’re exploring is key to sustainable adventures. Learn about local plants, animals, and ecosystems to appreciate their value and fragility. Share your knowledge with friends and family to encourage a broader culture of environmental stewardship.

Leave It Better Than You Found It

Make it a habit to pick up any litter you come across, even if it’s not yours. Bringing a small trash bag or container can help you leave the area cleaner and healthier than when you arrived.

By taking these steps, you can enjoy the wonders of the outdoors while protecting and preserving them for future generations. Sustainable exploration not only benefits the planet but also deepens your connection to nature, creating a more meaningful and fulfilling outdoor experience. Let’s all do our part to ensure the natural world remains vibrant and thriving for years to come.

Exploring Winter Wonders: Young Naturalist Club’s Snow School Adventure

At Nevada Outdoor School, we are dedicated to fostering a love for nature and the great outdoors. One of our standout programs, the Young Naturalist Club, recently wrapped up its second session of the school year with an exciting lineup of activities and lessons. With 55 enthusiastic participants, this session was packed with engaging educational experiences, with a major highlight being our immersive Snow School!

Learning the Lifecycle of a Snowflake

Participants began their Snow School experience by exploring the lifecycle of a snowflake. Through interactive lessons, they gained a fundamental understanding of what a snowflake is, its unique characteristics, and the process through which it forms. This lesson also helped students recognize the vital role snow plays in winter weather patterns, global temperatures, and freshwater resources. To reinforce their learning, students created their own snowflakes based on the lesson material, bringing science to life in a creative way.

Journaling Winter’s Wonders

What’s winter without some frosty fun? Even when there’s no snow on the ground, our Young Naturalists got into the winter spirit through journaling exercises, bingo games, and activities focused on winter wildlife. This lesson encouraged students to reflect on the signs of winter, share their thoughts about the season, and engage in interactive games designed to highlight the wonders of wintertime.

The Science Behind the Aurora Borealis

One of the most captivating natural phenomena in the world is the Aurora Borealis—or Northern Lights. Our students explored the science behind these mesmerizing light displays, learning about the atmospheric and magnetic forces that create this spectacular event. This lesson sparked curiosity and amazement, inspiring a deeper appreciation for Earth’s natural wonders.

The Art of Melting

In addition to the hands-on snowflake activities and nature journaling, the Young Naturalist Club also had the opportunity to dive into the science of snow and ice with an engaging lesson on melting. Students explored what makes snow and ice melt, conducting experiments to investigate factors like salt, sugar, and sand. They discovered that salt melts ice faster than sugar or nothing at all, learning how materials can lower the freezing point of water. In another experiment, students explored the effects of sunlight on melting by comparing ice cubes placed on black versus white paper, observing how dark colors absorb more heat. This lesson not only sparked curiosity but also helped students better understand real-world applications of snow and ice, such as salt used on roads and the impact of sunlight in snowy regions.

Discovering the Magic of Pine Trees

In another engaging session, participants learned about the unique characteristics of pine trees, including the lifecycle of a pine cone. Through hands-on activities, students discovered what makes pine trees so special and how they contribute to forest ecosystems.

Gratitude to NV Energy

This incredible session of the Young Naturalist Club was made possible through the generous support of NV Energy. Their commitment to outdoor education has enabled us to provide enriching experiences that inspire young minds to explore and appreciate the natural world. Thank you, NV Energy, for helping us cultivate the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts and environmental stewards!

Join the Adventure!

The Young Naturalist Club continues to offer exciting opportunities for children to connect with nature and expand their knowledge of the great outdoors. If your child is interested in joining, stay tuned for upcoming sessions filled with adventure, discovery, and hands-on learning!

Stay curious, stay adventurous, and keep exploring with Nevada Outdoor School!

What's New at NOS! January 2025

January was a month full of exciting outdoor adventures, hands-on learning, and community engagement for Nevada Outdoor School! From snowy hikes and fire-building workshops to nature journaling and citizen science, we embraced the winter season with enthusiasm. Our events brought people together to explore, learn, and connect with nature, whether through hiking icy trails, learning about weather patterns, or fostering a love for plants. With growing participation in programs like the Young Naturalist Club and successful outreach at the Sheep Show, we’re starting 2025 on a strong note—building skills, strengthening partnerships, and inspiring outdoor stewardship across Northern Nevada!

January 7 | New Years Resolution Hike

On January 7th, Nevada Outdoor School kicked off the New Year with a refreshing Resolution Hike in Water Canyon, just outside of Winnemucca, Nevada. The snow-covered landscape offered stunning views and a crisp, invigorating atmosphere as our small group of two participants hiked up to the community yurt. The snow added an extra touch of magic to the journey, making it the perfect way to embrace the beauty of nature and start 2025 on an active and inspiring note.

Show Love for Your Planet

Getting outside and immersing yourself in nature is one of the best ways to appreciate the beauty of our planet. However, outdoor adventures can sometimes have unintended negative impacts on the environment. By adopting simple, eco-friendly practices, you can show your love for the planet while enjoying all that nature has to offer. Here are 10 tips to make your outdoor experiences as sustainable as possible:

Follow Leave No Trace Principles

The Leave No Trace (LNT) guidelines provide a framework for minimizing your impact on the environment. These principles include planning ahead, traveling on durable surfaces, disposing of waste properly, leaving what you find, minimizing campfire impact, respecting wildlife, and being considerate of other visitors. Before heading out, familiarize yourself with these principles to ensure your adventures are low-impact.

Pack It In, Pack It Out

Always take your trash with you, and go a step further by picking up litter you find along the trail. Carry a small bag or container to collect debris and leave the area cleaner than you found it. Every small action contributes to a healthier planet.

Choose Sustainable Gear

Opt for eco-friendly outdoor equipment made from sustainable or recycled materials. Look for certifications like Fair Trade, Bluesign, or those indicating ethical production practices. Quality gear not only reduces waste but often lasts longer, keeping items out of landfills.

Stay on Designated Trails

Venturing off marked trails can damage fragile ecosystems and contribute to soil erosion. Stick to established paths to protect native plants and wildlife habitats, ensuring these spaces remain pristine for future visitors.

Use Reusable Items

Eliminate single-use plastics by carrying reusable water bottles, utensils, and food containers. Investing in these items reduces waste and helps prevent pollution in the places you explore.

Respect Wildlife

Observe animals from a distance and avoid feeding them. Feeding wildlife can disrupt their natural behaviors and diets, putting their health and safety at risk. Admire creatures in their natural habitat without interfering.

Minimize Campfire Impact

Campfires can leave lasting scars on the environment. Use a portable camp stove for cooking, and if fires are allowed, keep them small and contained in designated fire rings. Always ensure the fire is completely extinguished before leaving.

Carpool or Use Public Transportation

Reduce your carbon footprint by carpooling with friends or using public transportation to reach your outdoor destination. Fewer vehicles on the road mean less air pollution and less wear on natural areas.

Support Local Conservation Efforts

Get involved with local environmental organizations or volunteer for trail cleanups and habitat restoration projects. Supporting conservation efforts ensures outdoor spaces remain accessible and healthy for generations to come.

Educate Others

Share your knowledge about sustainable outdoor practices with friends and family. Encouraging others to adopt eco-friendly habits multiplies your positive impact on the planet.

By incorporating these simple practices into your outdoor adventures, you can protect the natural spaces you love while inspiring others to do the same. When we all take small steps to show love for the planet, the cumulative effect can lead to a healthier, more sustainable world. Happy exploring!

Spotlight on Service: Beau Blades, AmeriCorps Member and Outdoor Educator

At Nevada Outdoor School (NOS) in Winnemucca, Nevada, AmeriCorps members like Beau Blades are making a difference by connecting people to the natural world. Beau’s passion for the outdoors and teaching shines through in his role as an outdoor educator. Here’s a closer look at his journey with AmeriCorps and Nevada Outdoor School.

From Ely, Nevada, to Inspiring the Next Generation
Beau grew up in Ely, Nevada, and has lived in various places, but his love for the outdoors has been a constant. "I like being in the outdoors," he shares. "I like working with kids—it’s kind of fun. But mainly, I enjoy teaching them things they can use for the future."

His background includes an internship with the Nevada Department of Wildlife, where he discovered the joy of working outdoors and connecting with others. Now, as an AmeriCorps member, he continues that journey by inspiring students through hands-on outdoor education.

Discovering AmeriCorps
Beau learned about AmeriCorps through his mother, who encouraged him to explore opportunities on job boards. When he found the position at Nevada Outdoor School, he knew it was the perfect fit.

"The fact that I’m still outdoors is what drew me in," he explains. "Working with kids, teaching them things about the outdoors, and tying it into what they’re learning in school—it’s been pretty fun so far."

A Friendly Place to Grow
For Beau, AmeriCorps is more than a service program—it’s a welcoming and supportive environment. "AmeriCorps is a friendly place," he says. "It teaches people more than what they know. I’ve learned that AmeriCorps has so many host sites and opportunities to help people step out of their comfort zones—or dive deeper into what they’re passionate about."

Making an Impact
In just four months as an AmeriCorps member, Beau has already seen the positive impact his work has on the community. From organizing hikes to hosting community events, NOS and its AmeriCorps members are helping people get outside and engage with nature.

“It’s been a great impact,” Beau shares. “AmeriCorps members under NOS have really reached out to the community and provided opportunities for people to enjoy the outdoors.”

Favorite Memories and Looking Ahead
One of Beau’s favorite experiences so far has been attending a career fair, where he interacted with students eager to learn about Nevada Outdoor School and AmeriCorps. "There were a lot of kids with questions who were really interested in our booth," he recalls.

As for the future, Beau plans to stay connected to his community and continue sharing his passion for the outdoors.

New Year, New Adventures: Resolutions for Spending More Time Outdoors

As we welcome a new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on our goals and set resolutions to enhance our well-being. One simple yet impactful resolution you can make this year is to spend more time outdoors. Whether it’s a daily walk, a weekend hike, or planning your next camping trip, connecting with nature offers countless benefits for your mind, body, and soul.

Why Make Outdoor Time a Resolution?

Spending time in nature can:

• Boost your mood and reduce stress
• Improve physical health through active movement
• Enhance mental clarity and creativity
• Deepen your appreciation for the environment
• Create lasting memories with family and friends

In a world filled with screens and schedules, making time for the outdoors is a meaningful way to recharge and reconnect.

Ideas to Increase Your Outdoor Time

Here are some fun and manageable resolutions to help you embrace the outdoors:

Take a Daily Nature Break

Even 10–15 minutes a day can make a difference. Take a walk around your neighborhood, sit outside with a cup of coffee, or enjoy a moment of stillness in a local park.

Try a New Outdoor Activity

Challenge yourself to try something new, like snowshoeing, birdwatching, paddleboarding, or trail running. Exploring new activities can add excitement to your outdoor time.

Plan Weekend Adventures

Dedicate one day each weekend to an outdoor outing. It could be a short hike, a visit to a state park, or even just exploring a new trail near your home.

Set a Yearly Goal

Commit to spending a certain number of hours outside this year or visiting a set number of new trails, parks, or natural areas. Keep track of your progress to stay motivated.

Get the Family Involved

Outdoor time is even more enjoyable with loved ones. Go camping, have a picnic, or explore a new hiking trail together. These shared experiences can strengthen bonds and create lasting memories.

Join a Group or Club

Connect with like-minded individuals by joining a hiking group, outdoor education program, or conservation organization. This can provide opportunities to learn and explore while meeting new friends.

Start Your Outdoor Journey Today

The great outdoors is waiting for you—no matter the season. Start small, stay consistent, and watch how spending more time in nature can transform your year.

Winter Bird Feeding Tips and Tricks for Northern Nevada

 

As winter settles over Northern Nevada, the weather can change drastically for the local wildlife. While some birds migrate to warmer climates or enter a state of torpor during the colder months, others brave the chilly season and rely on our help for survival. Winter bird feeding is not only a rewarding way to support local wildlife, but it also offers an opportunity to observe and learn about these fascinating creatures up close. Here are some tips and tricks to make your backyard a haven for winter birds.

Understanding Bird Activity in Winter

Northern Nevada’s avian population changes significantly during the colder months. Some species, such as robins and sparrows, migrate south to escape freezing temperatures. Others, like the dark-eyed junco, American goldfinch, and house finch, may stick around or even migrate into the area from higher elevations or colder northern regions. Birds like quail and chickadees remain year-round, adapting to the harsh environment with incredible resilience.

Knowing which birds frequent your area in winter can help you provide appropriate food and shelter. A good resource for identifying local species is the Nevada Bird Records Committee or online tools like eBird, which provide up-to-date information about local bird populations.

Tips for Winter Bird Feeding

Choose the Right Food

• Black-oil sunflower seeds: A favorite among many species, these seeds are rich in fat and energy.
• Suet: This high-energy food is ideal for woodpeckers, nuthatches, and chickadees.
• Nyjer (thistle) seeds: Perfect for finches and other small songbirds.
• Peanuts: An excellent source of protein and fat, great for jays and woodpeckers.
• Mixed seeds: A variety of seeds can attract a diverse range of birds.

Provide Fresh Water Water sources can freeze in winter, making it difficult for birds to stay hydrated. A heated birdbath or placing warm water outside regularly can make a big difference.
Offer Shelter Birds need protection from the elements and predators. Planting native shrubs, maintaining brush piles, or providing roosting boxes can create a safe haven.
Keep Feeders Clean Dirty feeders can spread diseases among birds. Clean your feeders regularly with a mild soap solution and ensure they’re dry before refilling.
Be Consistent Birds quickly learn to rely on reliable food sources. If you start feeding, try to maintain the supply throughout the season.

Migration, Hibernation, and Winter Adaptations

While some birds migrate to escape Northern Nevada’s cold, others rely on fascinating adaptations to survive. Birds like the mountain chickadee can lower their body temperature at night to conserve energy, while quail huddle together to share warmth. Migration patterns can vary widely; for instance, some species travel thousands of miles, while others migrate locally to lower elevations where food is more abundant.

Creating a Bird-Friendly Yard Year-Round

Though winter feeding is vital, consider implementing bird-friendly practices year-round. Native plants provide natural food and shelter while reducing the need for supplemental feeding. Encourage biodiversity in your yard to support a healthy ecosystem for all wildlife.