Outdoor Wildlife Learning Sites (OWLS)

Outdoor Wildlife Learning Sites (OWLS)
OWLS sites provide outdoor conservation classrooms near schools where students can learn the importance of habitat and wildlife conservation.

The program got its start in 1993 when the Department constructed the first OWLS site at its headquarters in Bismarck to help promote future projects around the state. This 80-acre plot features interpretive stations near a fish-shaped fishing pond, including displays of native grasses, wildflowers, and trees, wildlife track identification, mini-badlands, and a bluebird trail.  In summer, thousands of kids tour the site.  

Currently, OWLS sites have been created throughout the state.  Go here to view a list of OWLS sites.

Your School Can Get Help to Construct an OWLS project
The department can get you started with an OWLS project by offering technical assistance and a financial grant. We will provide a $1,500 grant to schools that are approved. To qualify, schools must have an appropriate location, a planning committee of teachers, parents and students, raise $500 in matching funds, and submit a written application to Jeff Long at the Department. (Go here for an example of the format to be used when developing your application). Matching funds can also be raised as in-kind contributions such as individual volunteer labor valued at $8/hour or large equipment operation valued at $80/hour.

Signs are also available for display at OWLS sites to tell your visitors about habitats, animals and plants, and other interesting features. Go here to order OWLS site signs.

Community OWLS
Communities in North Dakota have also developed OWLS projects on a larger scale that do not need to be located near schools. Projects provide wildlife habitat and interpretation in conjunction with activities such as hiking, bird watching, aquatic exploration. Funding for these projects comes from different sources including grants from private organizations and companies, state and federal agencies, and help from contractors and businesses.

Where to Get More Ideas
Information also available at Learning from Community Wildlife Habitats.

Contact:

• Education and Outreach Office Secretary: 701-328-6615.
• Educational Coordinator: Jeff Long - 701-328-6322.
• Bismarck Region Outreach Biologist: Nathaniel Umphrey - 701-328-6332.
• Minot Region Outreach Biologist: Greg Gullickson - 701-857-7748.
• Fargo Region Outreach Biologist: Doug Leier - 701-281-1220.
• Grand Forks Region Outreach Biologist: Marty Egeland - 701-795-3811.
• Outreach Supervisor: Chris Grondahl, Bismarck - 701-328-6612.

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