Green Teens Field Studies

Everyone in our community has a place in our food system. Urban families can grow local, healthy food in an apartment with the right tools.

As part of the CGC’s Green Teens Challenge, our Field Studies bring classroom learning to life. These immersive experiences connect directly to the themes of the Challenge, giving students the chance to explore big ideas like conservation, biodiversity, renewable energy and urban food systems in real-world settings. Whether students are measuring forest health, testing renewable energy or designing ways to grow food in small spaces, they discover that they can be changemakers in their communities—and that their everyday choices matter.

Both of our Field Studies—Conservation in the fall and Urban Agriculture in the spring—are offered free of charge as a benefit to high schools participating in the Green Teens Challenge. Our team of trained educators and volunteers is eager to support you as you foster curiosity, creativity and environmental advocacy in your students.

Conservation Field Studies (Fall)

In this Field Study, students step into the role of conservationists. From exploring the vital role of forests to conducting hands-on biodiversity surveys to experimenting with renewable energy solutions, students experience how local actions connect to global challenges. They leave with a deeper understanding of how they can help protect and restore the natural world.

Topics Covered: Biodiversity, forestry, sustainable energy

Urban Agriculture Field Study (Spring)

In this Field Study, students become urban growers and problem-solvers. They explore hydroponic systems, design garden spaces and investigate plant health through pathology. Inspired by the Green Learning Station and our outdoor classroom, students see how food can be grown anywhere—from city lots to apartment balconies—and how innovation in agriculture can shape healthier communities.

Topics Covered: Landscape architecture, plant pathology, hydroponic systems

Field Study Details

  • Schedule: Field studies are held on Thursdays and run for 2.5 hours from 9:30am to 12pm. If your group needs a different day, please reach out and we will do our best to accommodate.

  • Number of Students: Maximum of 40; for larger groups, please schedule multiple trips.

  • Number of Chaperones: One chaperone per 10 students; we recommend three chaperones (including the teacher).

  • Lunch: Groups are welcome to have lunch on our outdoor patio after the Field Study.

  • Cost: This program is provided at no cost to schools. To help us continue offering these enriching experiences, we invite contributions of any size. Every gift—whether large or small—helps us elevate the program by refreshing supplies, creating new activities and ensuring that every student has the most engaging, hands-on learning experience possible.

  • Ongoing Support: Each group that participates in a CGC Field Study will receive follow-up support to help students put their learning into action! This support is customized to each group’s needs and can include free seeds, mentorship, in-class presentations, after-school programming, professional development workshops and much more.

Ready to take the next step?

Reach out to schedule a visit for your group: greenteens@civicgardencenter.org or (fill out our form here)