Project Learning Tree

Graphic of Minnesota PLT logo Project Learning Tree (PLT) is an international award-winning environmental education program. It uses the forest as a "window on the world" to increase students' understanding of our complex environment. PLT teaches not only about trees, but also about land, air, and water. These lessons help to instill the confidence and commitment to take responsible action on behalf of the environment.

PLT of Minnesota offers educators several educator workshops facilitated by trained DNR volunteer facilitators and natural resource professionals. Workshops are open to any formal or non-formal educators, pre- and in-service classroom educators, natural resources professionals, naturalists, scout leaders and others interested in environmental education.

PLT - Current Highlights

Rob Marohn of Duluth Named Project Learning Tree®-2008 Outstanding Educator of the Year (press release)
Rob Marohn of Duluth was one of five educators selected nationwide for their commitment to environmental education, exemplary use of PLT, and exceptional teaching skills. He will be honored at PLT's 22nd International Coordinators' Conference, May 13–16, in Jackson, MS. In addition to winning this national award, Rob was also selected as the sole recipient of the 2008 Barb Pitman Outstanding Educator Award.

How One Minnesota School Uses PLT and "Traveling Tree Treasure Trunks" (Herald-Review, Grand Rapids, newspaper article)
"Traveling Tree Treasure Trunks" is the brainstorm of Karen Christenson, a volunteer facilitator with the DNR Project Learning Tree and a part-time naturalist with the Forest History Center. "We want to get kids connected, to feel the power of nature," Christenson said excitedly.

Photograph of two facilitators in a woods Workshop participants get:

Resource materials
- Activity Guides for early childhood through high school
- Teacher Resources and Correlations to Academic Standards
- Grants
Continuing education units (CEUs)
Some workshop include graduate credits(s)
PLT Educator Updates newsletters

For more information on workshops and when they are offered

Events

12/12/08 - 12/13/08	Warner Nature Center, Marine on St. Croix	Project WET, WILD, WILD Aquatic, Learning Tree Workshop for K-8 Educators
01/17/09	Stewart Community Center, Stewart	Project Learning Tree Early Childhood Workshop
07/14/09 - 07/17/09	Vermilion Community College, Ely	Project WILD, WET, and Learning Tree in the North Woods - For Secondary Educators

Find more events on the DNR Events Calendar.

Don't see a workshop that works for you? Contact the PLT coordinator and suggest a date and workshop.

PLT History

Project Learning Tree (PLT)began in 1973 when the American Forest Institute entered into a partnership with the Western Regional Environmental Education Council (WREEC), an association of educators and resource professionals from 13 western states, to produce an educational program for use in the elementary and secondary schools of these states. The program was so successful that other states and countries asked to join the network resulting in PLT becoming both national and international within a few years.

PLT came to Minnesota in 1978, and in 1985 the Division of Forestry of the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources became its official sponsor. Today PLT continues to help teachers invigorate indoor learning, connect students with outdoor classrooms, and address the Minnesota academic standards and goals outlined in "A GreenPrint for Minnesota.

Today, Minnesota PLT partners with other organizations (such as the U.S. Forest Service, DNR School Forest Program, etc.) PLT workshops may include training in Project WET (water education) and Project WILD (wildlife education).