Join Sunriver Nature Center & Observatory as we take a deep dive into learning about apex predators. In this intensive workshop students will have the opportunity to learn field tracking skills, collect and record observation data, and learn about, debate, and discuss the critical role apex predators play in maintaining ecological balance and the challenges of coexisting with these predators.

This three-day intensive workshop is geared towards High School students eager to learn about wildlife biology, field tracking and data collection, and wildlife management and policies. This program will run March 24^th-26^th 2025 from 8:00am-2:00pm with each day involving offsite data collection in the Deschutes National Forest. Transportation to and from field sites will be provided and there is no cost to participate in this workshop. No prior experience is required and everyone that is excited and interested is encouraged to apply!

Application Timeline:

Applications accepted January 17th – February 28th

Accepted applicants notified by March 7th

Accepted applicants must reserve their spot by March 10th

Waitlist applicants will be notified if spots become available

Program Dates:

Monday March 24th- Wednesday March 26th 8:00am-2:00pm

Interested in becoming a sponsor? 

We are seeking 10 donors to sponsor local high school students in this exciting pilot program! YOU can broaden young minds… help make this unique and immersive learning opportunity possible. In thanks for your gift, you will receive a) an anonymous profile about your beneficiary student and why they are interested in learning more about apex predators; b) an update at the program’s conclusion including photos of the class in the field and your student’s summary of learning; and c) your name listed in a “Thank You” in the May Sunriver Scene.

You can sponsor one student’s participation with a $500 donation. Your gift covers program supplies, student gear, van rental and gas to get the group out to daily field surveys (looking for tracks, scat, and recording observations), honorariums for two participating wolf biologists, and SNCO staff to plan and lead the program. *Note: Students will not be selected based on any specific “qualifications.” SNCO will prioritize applicants from South Deschutes County, as well as families with low socio-economic status and those from minority and marginalized groups. We hope sponsors like you will join us in sparking curiosity in local students and helping them learn, grow, and develop their unique potential. If you are interested in sponsoring a student, please email us before Feb 28 at: give@snco.org. For questions or additional information email give@snco.org or call Kayla at 541-593-4442.