Osprey Wilds proposes mobile K‑12 outreach and local trail upgrades to expand statewide environmental learning

Osprey Wilds Environmental Learning Center presented two related proposals to the LCCMR on June 27: (1) a statewide mobile outreach program that brings hands‑on environmental education and outdoor recreation to K‑12 schools at their locations, and (2) a small capital request to improve trail signage and accessibility at its Sandstone campus.

Executive Director Brian Wood said the outreach proposal would deliver standards‑aligned classes at schools, parks or school forests, removing logistical barriers such as transportation and scheduling that prevent some districts from taking overnight field trips. The goal over three years is to reach at least 7,500 K‑12 students through day‑long or modular visits, with class sizes typically around 15 students for hands‑on instruction and larger auditorium‑style presentations when needed.

On campus, Wood explained a $25,000 proposal would print and install durable all‑weather trail maps and signs across 13 miles of free public trails, construct four interpretive signs for local biomes (grassland, eastern deciduous, boreal conifer and freshwater), and place crushed‑limestone surfacing near buildings to improve accessibility. The upgrades would help students, community members and visitors navigate trails and learn about local ecosystems, he said.

Commissioners asked about visitor numbers, property history and existing partnerships. Wood said Osprey Wilds hosts roughly 3,000 K‑12 students annually and noted proximity to regional trails and parks increases visitation. He described the trail signage work as low‑cost, high‑impact infrastructure for public learning and accessibility.