Archbold Biological Station is an independent, non-profit research facility, devoted to long-term ecological research and conservation. The Station is funded principally by proceeds from an endowment overseen by Archbold Expeditions, a non-profit operating foundation founded by Richard Archbold. The Station owns and manages a 5,193-acre, globally significant natural preserve. The Station also manages the MacArthur Agro-ecology Research Center (MAERC) (10,300 acres) at Buck Island Ranch. Archbold Expeditions also manages the Reserve (3,648 acres) adjacent to the Station.
Archbold Biological Station is dedicated to sharing its knowledge and habitat with students of all ages, from third grade through continuing adult education. The Station's Education Department offers a variety of great programs:
1.- Getting to Know the Real Florida - a hands-on program for students (grades 3-5) of the Highlands County school system and neighboring counties. The program consists of a 4-day in-class portion presented by the teacher (Archbold designed interactive PowerPoint slideshows), followed by a full-day field trip to the Station led by Archbold's education staff and volunteers. More than 1,400 children participate in this program annually.
2.- Discovering Florida Scrub - a 3rd-5th grade hands-on, inquiry-based curriculum designed to give teachers and students a deeper understanding of science and a greater appreciation of the Florida scrub. The Station's Education Department offers teacher workshops to familarize teachers with the material. Workshops can be given on-site at the Station or off-site as well. Please call for details.
3.- Ecology Summer Camp - Four 1-week long day camp sessions are offered to children ages 7-12. The camp provides hands-on outdoor experiences that help stimulate curiosity, foster appreciation, and teach about the endless wonders of the natural world. Topics are approached through a wide variety of fun activities, crafts, games, guest speakers and tours.
4.- Indian Prairie Safari - an educational swamp buggy tour of Buck Island Ranch are offered to schools and public alike. Participants experience the rich, diverse landscape of a working cattle ranch with its unique ecological research program and abundant wildlife. Space is limited (1 buggy - 20; 2 buggy - 40). A fee per student/teacher is charged. Please call for details.
Lodging Amenities
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MissionArchbold Biological Station is dedicated to long-term ecological research and conservation. The primary focus is on the organisms and environments of the unique Lake Wales Ridge and adjacent central Florida. The Station's program is part of a global effort to understand, interpret, and preserve the earth's natural diversity.
Cost of Programs/AdmissionNo charge to educators for the Getting to Know the Real Florida program. Also, no charge for Station tours. Donations are always welcome.
A fee is charged for swamp buggy tours at Buck Island Ranch. This varies according to type of group and group size. Call for details.
Accommodations are available for on-site teacher workshops. Group size is limited. Please refer to link for lodging and meal fees:
http://www.archbold-station.org/abs/visitorinfo/fees.htm.
FeaturesThe Station's environmental education program offers a unique blend of research and education opportunities. Archbold's Education staff has developed and implemented two of its own environmental education curricula that target students grades 3-5.
Both the Getting to Know the Real Florida and Discovering Florida Scrub curricula are hands-on, inquiry-based and centered around the unique and threatened Florida scrub ecosystem.
Discovering the Florida Scrub is easily adapted to accommodate middle and high school students. Teacher workshops for this program are offered on-site and off-site.
Equipped with an auditorium, classroom, picnic area, dining room and cottage accommodations, it is ideal for a multitude of uses.
AccessibilityWheelchair accessibility around main building area, but not on nature trail.
AdditionalGetting to Know the Real Florida program
Program offered: September to December
Reservations: 3 weeks in advance (sooner, if possible, as dates are limited) Group size: absolute maximum of 60.
Other Group Visits
Time Offered: August-December (school groups), April-January (adult groups)
Reservations: minimum 3 week notice (schools), 2 week notice (adult groups)
Group Size: minimum of 10, maximum of 30 (unless arranged otherwise)
Eco Region(s)Southern Coastal Plain (Ecoregion 75)
Related Topics
- Auditorium
- Bus Parking
- Conference Facilities
- Educational Laboratory
- Environmental Education Organization
- Food Services
- Hiking Trail
- Lodging
- Meeting Rooms
- Nonprofit Group
- Permanent Education Staff
- Picnic Area
- Resource Library
- Restrooms
- Volunteer Opportunities or Service Learning
| Posted |
7/30/2007 10:01 AM |
| Updated |
3/22/2009 |
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