Education

A long line of students and chaperones hike toward an outdoor learning station during a field trip.

NPS

 

How would you like to have a huge herd of elk, a million blooming wildflowers, historic and cultural artifacts, and a world-renowned caldera as your classroom? You can have all of these and more when you schedule an education program at Valles Caldera National Preserve.

School groups are invited to explore the wonders of Valles Caldera through distance learning programs, ranger-led field trips, or self-guided (teacher-led) field trips. Our education team also travels to schools, libraries, and community centers across northern New Mexico to provide off-site programs about Valles Caldera. To arrange a program or field trip, please email us at least 30 days in advance.

 

 

Program Topics

Click each header for a brief description of the topics we can cover during virtual and in-person education programs.

Geology

The Jemez Mountains exhibit millions of years of geologic history, from towering peaks to rounded lava domes to the caldera that formed 1.23 million years ago. In our programs, students can learn about the geologic history of the caldera, the diversity of rock formations, and the hydrothermal features that make Valles Caldera such a unique landscape. 

Fire Ecology

Naturally-occurring fire is an important component of ecosystem health at Valles Caldera and across the Jemez Mountains, but what went wrong in the 1900s and 2000s to produce megafires like Las Conchas, Cerro Grande, Thompson Ridge, and Cerro Pelado? Our fire ecology programs explore the causes of natural fires, fire adaptations in ponderosa pine trees, and landscape resilience. 

Wildlife

Valles Caldera has over 50 species of mammals, 80 species of birds and is even home to 3 endangered species: the Jemez Mountains salamander, Mexican spotted owl, and the New Mexico meadow jumping mouse. Our programs offer students the opportunity to learn about conservation efforts, wildlife behavior, and the rich diversity of animals inhabiting this ecosystem.