Forest Expo

The Expo is designed for 6th graders from West Bonner County School District (Priest River Elementary, Priest Lake Elementary, and Idaho Hill) and Newport School District (Sadie Halstead Middle School). Over the past 18 years, this program has engaged numerous students, teachers, and parents, fostering a deeper understanding of forest environments and conservation.

In the weeks leading up to the event, students receive workbooks to study various forest-related topics. During the Expo, they explore ten interactive stations along a trail specifically built for this event, providing hands-on learning experiences about forest ecosystems.

Expo Learning Stations

Students participate in ten stations covering key environmental and conservation topics:

Harvest Demonstration – Understanding how forest ecosystems and soil productivity are enhanced through responsible harvesting.
Forest Health & Management – Exploring methods to restore land health, soil productivity, and native species.
Forest Products – Learning about wood-based products and their everyday applications.
Fire Ecology – Examining the role of fire in watershed restoration, habitat improvement, and forest health.
Tree & Plant Identification – Recognizing native species, controlling invasive plants, and improving land health.
Wildlife – Understanding habitat restoration, species reestablishment, and ecosystem enhancements.
Recreation – Learning about responsible trail use, boating, camping, and backcountry first aid.
Tree Planting – Hands-on experience in land restoration and water quality improvement.
Hydrology - Exploring water dynamics
Fisheries – Understanding fish habitats, and watershed maintenance.

Developing Future Forest Stewards

The Expo helps instill ecosystem awareness in youth and the surrounding communities, encouraging students to consider careers in natural resource management. Through early education, PCFC aims to create future managers and stewards of our nation’s forests.