Roots & Wings, our youth education program, takes students on a journey through the seasons with a series of farm- and nature-based classes. Students ages 7 to 12 (grades 2 through 7) engage in experiences at the farm and along the American River Parkway where they learn valuable life skills that encourage healthy living and stewardship of the land.

Class and Program Design: Classes at the American River Ranch lead youth towards connecting with food, health, and the environment by learning about soil fertility and production, planting and tending native and food bearing plants, irrigation, garden design, seasonality, fresh snacks from the farm, and hands-on tasks in the Youth Garden. Participants explore all aspects of the American River Ranch from the field, and into the forest and American River Parkway.

Field experiences in the American River Parkway produce hands-on tasks and studies along Cordova Creek, including water quality and conservation, native plants and soils, local wildlife, and stewardship projects. These activities are designed to address Next Generation Science Standards. Participants will walk away with a deep understanding and appreciation of sustainable agriculture, seasonal foods, native plant restoration, creek and river ecosystems, and they become life-long stewards of the American River Ranch and Parkway.