Elk University logoMichigan educators with students in grades 9 through 12 can register for a free elk education program designed to fit into a busy school semester while still meeting educational standards.”Elk University officially started in 2015, so we are now in our second school year,” said Department of Natural Resources wildlife outreach technician Katie Keen. “We’ve had about 40 schools enrolled this fall, totaling about 2,600 students from the Upper Peninsula to southeast Michigan, and we hope to continue to reach additional schools this spring.”
Three lessons are provided in YouTube format, with an activity provided for each lesson. Total classroom time required to complete Elk University is approximately three hours. Lessons cover Michigan history, forest management, elk biology, wildlife disease and social considerations for wildlife management. Students also will learn how the DNR manages and maintains a healthy elk herd for current and future generations.
To enroll in the spring semester, the DNR asks educators to register online before Jan. 30, 2017.
“Connecting students with Michigan’s wildlife is the goal of our wildlife education programs,” said Keen. “There are so many unique and interesting natural wonders here in Michigan, the possibilities are endless.”
In addition to Elk University, other wildlife education programs also are available for K-8 grades. Visit mi.gov/wildlife for more teacher resources.
