Schools across the nation are transforming concrete and turf into living and breathing wetlands!

At the local watershed level, school footprints can represent a sizeable portion of land use. On average an elementary school takes up 5-10 acres, a middle school 20-30 acres and a high school 30-40 acres.

Dominated by impervious surfaces, schools represent an opportunity to exact real and measurable watershed improvements with regards to decreasing stormwater run-off and the resulting non-point source pollution. However, the benefits of utilizing schoolyards extend much further.

As outdoor classrooms they improve academic achievement. As aesthetic enhancements, they increase school pride and decrease vandalism. As demonstration projects, they create awareness and understanding throughout the greater community leading to increased stewardship.

Contact Environmental Concern if you are interested in hearing the call of the wild at your school.