This summer’s High Park Fire will not impact the traditional Poudre School District ECO Week excursions to the mountain this fall, where students study ecological lessons, according to Dr. Kevin Hahn, assistant superintendent of elementary schools.

“Pingree Park is operating as usual,” said Dr. Hahn. “We’re looking forward to another great season of ECO Week.”

Fifth-graders from participating schools are now preparing for their ECO (ecology) Week excursions, which are usually held in Pingree Park or Estes Park. Trips usually begin in late August and extend through October. ECO Week is a key component in helping students achieve standards in both science and social studies and has been a tradition in PSD for more than 30 years.

While the outdoor education trips don’t last a full week, the experience makes a long-lasting impression on students. ECO Week activities and experiences vary by location and may include:

• Ecological lessons, which may include tree, bird and plant identification
• A variety of guided nature hikes tailored to each group
• Stream ecology
• Landform identification
• Stargazing and astronomy
• Memorable group experiences, hiking and team building

Watch this Channel 10 video about Putnam Elementary students' recent ECO Week experience.