Discovery Education and the Outdoor Power Equipment Institute’s Education and Research Foundation launched a free online science-based program, TurfMutt.
The digital curriculum is designed to help elementary school teachers instill an appreciation for green spaces and landscapes in their students. Led by Lucky, a real rescue dog, the curriculum features things such as lesson plans for students in third through fifth grade, activities, puzzles, videos and an interactive map.
Discovery Education and OPEI are also launching a contest, Landscapes Across America, to encourage students to submit digital photo slideshows featuring the unique ecosystem where they live, as well as a description of the environment aspects of their region that must be protected. All entries must be submitted by March 31, and the first place winner will be awarded a $5,000 grant to help implement an eco-friendly program, $500 for the teacher and have a tree planted by Discovery Education for each student and teacher in the class.