The Denver Botanic Gardens farm class offers a unique educational experience at Chatfield Farms, focusing on sustainable agriculture, local food systems, and hands-on learning. These classes cater to various age groups, from PreK to high school students, covering topics such as food production, water conservation, and Colorado’s farming history. With programs like the School Group Farm Program, Sustainability 101, and A-Maize-ing Explorers, participants gain valuable insights into modern farming practices and environmental stewardship.
What Topics Are Covered in the Denver Botanic Gardens Farm Class?
The Denver Botanic Gardens farm class encompasses a wide range of topics, each tailored to specific age groups and educational objectives. Here’s a breakdown of the main programs and their focus areas:
- School Group Farm Program:
- Where food is grown
- Historical Hildebrand Ranch site
- History and future of farming in Colorado
-
Hands-on activities and self-guided exploration
-
Sustainability 101:
- Water conservation techniques
- Food consumption patterns
- Daily sustainability practices on the farm
-
Alignment with NGSS and Colorado State Standards
-
A-Maize-ing Explorers:
- Maize life cycle and uses
- Navigation of a 7-acre corn maze
-
Seasonal farming practices (October-specific)
-
High School Service-Learning Projects:
- Hands-on work in produce fields and flower beds
- Assistance with ongoing research
- Panel discussions on garden and farm careers
What Is the Schedule for Denver Botanic Gardens Farm Classes?
The scheduling of farm classes at Denver Botanic Gardens is flexible and varies based on the specific program. Here’s an overview of the scheduling process:
- School Group Farm Program: Available on select weekdays
- Sustainability 101: Select weekdays, scheduled through the school group request form
- A-Maize-ing Explorers: Offered on select Mondays through Thursdays in October
- High School Service-Learning Projects: Specific dates, such as April 28, 2025, for the spring session
To secure a spot for these programs, schools and groups must submit a request form or contact the Denver Botanic Gardens directly. The exact dates and times are determined based on availability and demand.
Who Can Participate in Denver Botanic Gardens Farm Classes?
The farm classes at Denver Botanic Gardens are designed to accommodate various age groups, ensuring that the content is appropriate and engaging for each level. Here’s a breakdown of the age requirements for each program:
| Program | Age/Grade Range |
|---|---|
| School Group Farm Program | PreK–12 |
| Sustainability 101 | Grades 2–12 |
| A-Maize-ing Explorers | Grades 3–5 |
| High School Service-Learning Projects | Grades 9–12 |
These age ranges are carefully selected to ensure that the educational content and activities are suitable for the participants’ developmental stages and learning capabilities.
How Do You Register for Denver Botanic Gardens Farm Classes?
Registration for Denver Botanic Gardens farm classes involves a straightforward process:
- For School Group Programs:
- Submit the 2024-2025 School Group Request Form
- Cost: $6 per student for schools within SCFD, $7 per student for schools outside SCFD
-
Chaperone requirement: One adult per 10 students (additional chaperones at $7 each)
-
For Service-Learning Projects:
- Registration is required
- Cost: $6 per student for schools within SCFD, $7 per student for schools outside SCFD
- Chaperone requirement: One adult per group of 20 students (additional chaperones at $7 each)
It’s important to note that early registration is recommended, as these programs can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons.
What Makes Denver Botanic Gardens Farm Classes Unique?
The Denver Botanic Gardens farm classes stand out for several reasons:
- Location: Classes take place at Chatfield Farms, providing an authentic farm environment for learning.
- Hands-on Experience: Participants engage in practical activities, from planting to harvesting.
- Historical Context: The programs incorporate the rich farming history of Colorado.
- Sustainability Focus: Classes emphasize eco-friendly practices and conservation techniques.
- Career Exploration: High school programs offer insights into potential careers in agriculture and horticulture.
What Should Participants Bring to Denver Botanic Gardens Farm Classes?
When attending a farm class at Denver Botanic Gardens, participants should come prepared. Here’s a suggested packing list:
- Comfortable, closed-toe shoes
- Weather-appropriate clothing (layers recommended)
- Sun protection (hat, sunscreen)
- Water bottle
- Notebook and pen (for older students)
- Packed lunch or snacks (if not provided by the program)
How Do Denver Botanic Gardens Farm Classes Support Curriculum Standards?
The farm classes at Denver Botanic Gardens are designed to align with various educational standards:
- NGSS (Next Generation Science Standards)
- Colorado State Standards
- STEM education principles
These alignments ensure that the programs complement classroom learning and provide valuable, standards-based experiences outside the traditional school environment.
What Impact Do Denver Botanic Gardens Farm Classes Have on Participants?
The farm classes at Denver Botanic Gardens offer numerous benefits to participants:
- Enhanced understanding of food systems and agriculture
- Increased awareness of environmental issues and sustainability
- Development of practical skills in gardening and farming
- Improved knowledge of local ecology and biodiversity
- Inspiration for potential career paths in agriculture and related fields
These impacts contribute to a more informed and environmentally conscious generation of students.
How Can Schools Maximize the Benefits of Denver Botanic Gardens Farm Classes?
To get the most out of the farm class experience, schools can:
- Prepare students with pre-visit activities related to farming and sustainability
- Integrate the farm class topics into ongoing curriculum units
- Encourage students to share their experiences through presentations or projects
- Consider follow-up visits or extended programs for deeper learning
- Collaborate with Denver Botanic Gardens educators to tailor the experience to specific learning objectives
By taking these steps, schools can ensure that the farm class becomes a valuable part of their overall educational program.
References:
– [Denver Botanic Gardens Virtual Tour 2024 (CO) – YouTube][1]
– [School Programs at Chatfield Farms – Denver Botanic Gardens][2]
– [Adult Programs | Denver Botanic Gardens][3]