2011 Pre-Conference Sessions:

Pre-Conference Session #1: Geology of the Front Range: Think Globally, Explore Locally

Full day (8am-4:30pm), $60 members/$75 non-members. 1/2 credit available from Colorado School of Mines ($45 fee payable at workshop)

The first skill in learning geology is making good observations of rocks. The stories behind the rocks are revealed when you apply a few important geologic principles.  Learn about the past environments that existed when different Colorado rocks formed and why those rocks are now the tops of mountains.

Start the day with inquiry-based activities, discuss the logistics of taking your students on field trips, and spend the afternoon (~4 hours) exploring Eldorado Canyon to decipher the geologic history of the area. Dress appropriately for the weather and bring a lunch.

Pre-Conference Session #2: Zero Waste Tour

Four stops on this fun and informative field trip will allow participants to see first-hand the systems needed for Zero Waste to be successful in a school and in the community. The four sites to be visited include a Zero Waste school, Eco-Cycle/City of Boulder’s Center for Hard-to-Recycle Materials, ReSource (construction waste recycling) and the Boulder County Recycling Center. Educational strategies will also be discussed.

**Participants should bring a lunch and be dressed for the weather (part of the field trip will be outside, and won’t be canceled due to precipitation).