Disney Conservation Fund Supports Salamander Habitat Restoration at SCICON, Inspiring Students to Protect the Planet

SCICON, short for Outdoor School of Science and Conservation, is a magical place located in the foothills of Tulare County, California. The school is operated by the Tulare County Office of Education and aims to educate fifth and sixth graders about the importance of science and conservation. Over 8,000 students visit the 1,170-acre campus each year to learn about nature, caring for the Earth, and respecting self and others.

The school’s principal, Dianne Shev, describes SCICON as a unique opportunity for students to experience the beauty of the outdoors and gain a deeper understanding of their impact on the environment. Students have the chance to walk through local trails, learn about aquatic life in nearby rivers and lakes, and explore a museum that features local artifacts and animals. One of the key goals of the school is to instill in future generations a sense of responsibility for environmental protection.

In early 2023, SCICON was severely damaged by historic flooding in the area that affected native salamander habitat. Friends of SCICON received a grant from the Disney Conservation Fund to support salamander habitat restoration efforts. Disney’s “VoluntEARS” joined forces with local volunteers to clean up debris from flooded areas and revitalize damaged habitats.

The grant and volunteer efforts will not only help restore salamander habitat but also educate students about environmental conservation. Shev believes that by inspiring every child who visits SCICON to take action and spread conservation messages, great strides can be made towards protecting our planet. With grant support from organizations like Disney Conservation Fund and community efforts from volunteers like “VoluntEARS”, SCICON continues its mission of empowering students to make a positive impact on their surroundings.