Our Programs

Forest Ecology

Forest ecosystems are filled with myriad relationships, both seen and unseen. We use a systems approach to consider our relationship to forests in our daily lives and how we can live as active participants in these spaces. Pathways to choose from:

1. trees and practicing tree identification skills
2. studying energy and matter through the lens of decomposition
3. investigating evidence of animals through tracking
4. learning about relationships by studying lichens
5. mapping and landscape cross-sections

Meadow Ecology

Meadows and grasslands are crucial ecosystems for diverse plant and animal species. They are also spaces that hold unique relationships to both humans and fire throughout history and in our present moment. Pathways to choose from:

Creek Ecology

Creek and riparian ecosystems are crucial to the success of diverse plant and animal species yet are also frequently impacted by human development. We use a watershed approach to discuss and learn how we can better participate in these ecosystems. Participants should come prepared to get wet in these classes and must wear appropriate closed-toe shoes (e.g. old tennis shoes, water shoes, crocs, etc.). Pathways to choose from:

1. bioassessments of macroinvertebrates
2. erosion and stream morphology
3. mapping and landscape cross-sections
4. animal adaptations
5. riparian stewardship and planting

Lake Ecology

A multitude of aquatic and terrestrial species across all trophic levels depend on lakes (and similar lentic systems) throughout their lives and development. This is a boating class, so increased class time is needed. Participants should come prepared to get wet in these classes andmust wear appropriate closed-toe shoes (e.g. old tennis shoes, water shoes, crocs, etc.). Pathways to choose from:

1. bioassessments of macroinvertebrates
2. mapping and landscape cross-sections
3. soundscape mapping

Journals to Justice

Many of the inspiring voices of environmental justice, advocacy, and stewardship found direction and wisdom during reflective moments in the midst of various ecosystems. Learners can hike along our eco-justice trail around our lake and practice nature writing, journaling, and reflection. In both guided and individual settings, learners consider the words of authors and advocates native to Tennessee and beyond as they creatively investigate ways in which to promote better relationship with the earth and people in their local communities.

Gardening Together

Garden spaces provide insight into the human relationship with the land and an opportunity to engage our senses in its practice. Learners can investigate the workings of a seasonal garden, cook food together, explore pollinators and beneficial insects, & practice composting. We learn to minimize food waste, eat at home, and think about the food we eat. We consider agricultural practices and food systems and learn how we can promote food justice.

Arts & the Earth

Love for the earth has inspired the creation of diverse works of art, solved challenging problems, & informed the way humans have built for centuries. Learners can practice age-appropriate journaling skills, express themselves through art, & consider how humans have historically found inspiration to build and create from nature’s own artistic expressions & designs. This class can be a standalone class or a reflection class at the end of an experience.

High Ropes

In high ropes, learners (grades 6-12) work individually and collectively, working to climb a 40-foot rock wall, a giant’s ladder, and vertical playpen. They can also experience the rush of our giant “swing by choice” and “quick jump” elements as well. The challenges are big on this course; the support of fellow participants and our well-led staff will provide an exhilarating learning experience that expands our ability to create and achieve goals, confront fears, and cultivate self-confidence.

Low Ropes

In low ropes & team building, learners (grades 5-12) work cooperatively in unique elements that require balanced communication, problem solving, and trust. These elements encourage group debriefing and reflection on how the challenges faced at the course can be interpreted alongside the relationships we create and build at home, school, and in our communities.

Zipline

The Cedar Crest zipline is 300 yards (900 feet) long with two lines are available for an exhilarating ride across Cedar Crest’s field. Helmets and harnesses are provided. Instruction and facilitation are provided by Cedar Crest Staff.

Canoe & Kayak

Stargazing

Learners search the night sky and participate in stargazing to seek out our seasonal celestial bodies and constellations. Science and cultural stories and myths intersect to provide a colorful experience to better understand the night sky.

Bonfire

Learners can experience an evening filled with stories, songs, fireside snacks, and sharing in good conversation. You may also split into groups to take part in sharing circles that provide learners with a space to share what they’ve learned that day and throughout their experience.

Soundscapes

Learners slow down to listen to the evening soundscapes around them and practice building diagrams and maps of what they hear. We absorb different types of information about our surroundings all of the time. This practice gives learners space to tune in to the world around us in creative ways.