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Education

About

The Inland Empire Resource Conservation District (IERCD) provides free, hands-on environmental education programs that support classroom learning across our service area. Most programs are designed for grades K–5, with select offerings available for middle and high school students.

Our Education Department delivers engaging, standards-aligned lessons that help students understand the natural systems around them. Using local examples, we explore regional water resources, wildlife, agriculture, and ecosystems in ways that are interactive, age-appropriate, and relevant to students’ everyday lives. Programs are available in English and Spanish. 

Who We Serve

IERCD education programs are available to:

  • Public, private, and charter schools serving grades K–5 within our service area
  • Select programs, including Know Your Water, for students up to 12th grade
  • Youth groups, after-school programs, and clubs

Not sure if your school or organization is within the IERCD service area? Enter your address in the map below to check eligibility.

Available Programs

Explore-A-Flora 
A close-up of a purple flower with delicate petals and green spiky foliage in a natural setting.

This program introduces students to California native plants and their importance to local ecosystems and wildlife. Students learn how plants grow, how photosynthesis works, and how invasive species impact our region. Each student plants locally sourced native seeds in a biodegradable pot to take home, helping increase biodiversity beyond the classroom. Content is adapted to match each grade level.

Healthy Habitats 
A small animal is nestled among shrubs and dirt in a dimly lit environment.

Students explore what animals need to survive and how healthy habitats support both wildlife and people. This program helps students identify the key elements of a healthy ecosystem and discover simple ways to create wildlife-friendly spaces at home or school. Lessons are customized to be developmentally appropriate for each grade.

Gardening for Good 

This program connects students to food systems, community gardens, and local farmers markets. Our hands on activity goes further than the classroom. Students have the opportunity to plant veggie seeds into a compostable planter and watch their veggies grow at home. The program is tailored to each grade level and encourages responsibility, observation, and community awareness.

 

 

Know Your Water 

Know Your Water is an environmental education program offered in partnership with local water agencies. Program content and service areas vary based on funding and agency boundaries. 

 

San Gorgonio Pass Water Agency

Available to schools within the Agency’s service area, including Calimesa, Beaumont, Banning, and Cabazon. This program supports classroom instruction through hands-on learning about hydrology and water conservation. Topics include the water cycle, the State Water Project, and the Agency’s role in groundwater recharge. Lessons can be adapted for elementary, middle, and high school classrooms, up to 12th grade. Available in English and Spanish. 

 

San Bernardino Valley Water Conservation District

Available to schools within the Conservation District’s service area, including Redlands, Loma Linda, Highland, and San Bernardino. Students explore where their water comes from, how it is managed, and why conservation matters. Topics include the water cycle, the State Water Project, and SBVWCD’s role in regional water sustainability. This program is available for grades K–12, with content adjusted for each grade level. Available in English and Spanish. 

Santa Ana Watershed 

This program helps students understand how watersheds function and why they are important for water movement and drainage. Using a hands-on watershed model, students explore Southern California’s topography and see how water flows through the region. Lessons are customized to meet the needs of each grade level.

What to Expect

Free programs delivered at your education site
All education programs are provided at no cost and take place at your school or designated learning space.

Hands-on, interactive lessons
Programs include engaging activities and demonstrations designed to reinforce classroom learning and encourage student participation.

Grade-appropriate instruction
Lessons are tailored to your students’ grade level and learning needs. Most programs serve grades K–5, with Know Your Water programs available for grades K–12.

Aligned with classroom learning
Content supports science and environmental education standards and is designed to complement existing curriculum.

All materials provided
IERCD supplies the necessary materials for each lesson.

Led by trained educators
Programs are taught by experienced IERCD staff who are familiar with local environmental topics and regional resources.

Simple scheduling process
Teachers can request programs in advance, and our team will work with you to coordinate dates, times, and any site-specific needs.

Book Today!

We are now scheduling programs for 2026. Please email education@iercd.org for more information.