Public Lands Are Our Classroom: Here’s How We Can Support Them Together

At Outward Bound, public lands are our classroom. Whether we’re facilitating initiatives in a city park or navigating a backcountry expedition, time in nature is a cornerstone of our work. It is what makes our programming unique, and it is where our students thrive.   

 The recent federal workforce reductions have a direct impact on both people and public lands. And while we are still gearing up for an exciting summer season where hundreds of students will experience time outside, we are aware of strained resources among land management agencies. Course quality and the safety of our students remain high priority and we will adjust our operations if necessary to maintain our high standards.   

And still, there’s more we can do together. What we know at Outward Bound is that valuable contributions take many forms. Sometimes it’s leading your group as the navigator of the day; or carrying a little more in your pack to support someone else; or adding joy as the secret ingredient when you’re on kitchen crew. Navigating challenges will take all of us. Here’s how you can help:  

• Be a considerate guest. We’ll be talking about responsible backcountry travel while we’re on course and you can do the same, even if you’re not traveling far from home. Before you embark on your adventures, brush up on how to Recreate Responsibly, make a plan for packing out what you pack in, and know and follow the rules and guidelines for the places you visit.
• Volunteer. Service is an element of many Outward Bound courses and even if you’re not on course with us this year, there are myriad ways to get involved with your community. Organize or join a park cleanup day, volunteer with a local conservation group, and share volunteer opportunities with others.  
• Participate. One thing we hope all our students learn is that your voice is important. Our crews succeed when everyone participates – and so do communities. Whether you’re joining a study group, talking to your friends at work or school, or doing work that’s important to you, your contributions will help shape the future of the world we live in.   

 Have other ideas? A story about what time in nature means to you? An update on actions you’re taking in support of public lands and the people who care for them? We’d love to hear from you. You can email us at [email protected].

All Forward,
Outward Bound USA