Environmental Education for Youth STATUS: Increasing demands are made upon individuals to make effective decisions, either directly or indirectly, concerning the environment and conservation. These decisions depend upon knowledge not readily available in a person's formal education. In 1995, the Arizona State Legislature passed a law requiring that environmental education, if taught, must include social and economic implications. Teachers and parents have little time to thoroughly research these complex topics. POLICY: The Coconino NRCD believes that environmental education is critical in fostering in our citizens the awareness of resource concerns. One of the primary means to deal with almost any resource issue is information and education. A high priority is placed on the education of our youth in order to provide the necessary tools and knowledge to make effective decisions in the future. We intend to stay involved in resource education to assure balanced, locally relevant, factual information is disseminated. IMPLEMENTATION: Because of these convictions, we sponsor an independent program entitled "Willow Bend Environmental Education Center." The Center coordinates environmental education projects. It bridges the gap between a demonstrated need within the educational system and the resources available through organizations, universities and federal, state and local agencies dealing with our natural resources. The Center develops programs, activities and materials for students and teachers such as in class programs, outdoor classrooms, resource materials, curriculum guides, field trips and environmental study areas.