The Mission of EcoReach
The purpose of this program is to connect graduate, undergraduate, and professional ecologists at the University of Georgia with school-age children in order to heighten awareness of the science of ecology and environmental issues. By interacting with young people, we hope to raise awareness and enthusiasm for science, while supplementing the schools’ curriculum to meet objectives in the state curriculum guidelines.
EcoReach is here to interact with teachers to provide flexible programs designed to meet the needs of their students. We also serve our community through informal educational opportunities, such as presenting programs to local scout groups, providing judges for science fairs, and presenting programs at local science days.
Upcoming Events
Scary Oozy Slimy Day
18th October 2025
Event participants will learn about things in nature they consider gross, ugly, scary and why they are important to our environment.Vulture Fest Athens Clarke County
25th October 2025
The ACC Vulture Festival is a celebration of “nature’s clean-up crew,” the vulture! Every year, during this week, we shine a spotlight on this amazing creature, which includes a wide variety of species from all over the world.The Invisible Mammal – Screening (Bat Week Celebration!)
26th October 2025
We will be hosting a screening of the 90 minute film, The Invisible Mammal, at Athentic. The film is about bats, their struggle to survive, and the researchers who help them. Family friendly crafts and educational materials at 5pm and the screening at 6pm. Enjoy food and cocktails with Athentic’s Longnose Agave (21+)Nature’s Calendar (ACC Library Session)
1st November 2025
Part 2 of Nature’s Calendar, “On the Move!,” explores how and why animals migrate in response to seasonal changes. Students will follow the journeys of birds, butterflies, and other travelers through interactive maps, games, and crafts. We’ll uncover the challenges of migration and learn how people can help animals along the way.Nature’s Calendar (ACC Library Session)
15th November 2025
Part 3 of Nature’s Calendar, “Surviving the Cold,” dives into how animals prepare for and endure winter through hibernation, torpor, food storage, and clever adaptations.Virtual Activities
At home activities and games for kids and students (K12) to learn about environmental and ecological concept, while having fun!
Backyard Critters
This program celebrates the amazing diversity of nature and wildlife that can be found even in your own backyard!
Community
To share information about the ecology with the community
Awareness
To strengthen awareness of environmental issues
Inspire
To inspire an interest in the environment in school-age children
Educational Support
To provide educational opportunities for students and faculty in the School of Ecology
Who We Are
Our organization is made up primarily of graduate students from the Odum School of Ecology at the University of Georgia. We also have some undergraduate and faculty participants, as well as graduate students from other departments. We are a student-organized group with a faculty advisor, Dr. Takao Sasaki.
Areas We Serve
We are happy to serve areas within a 30 minute drive from the University of Georgia.
