Restoration Ecology for Young Students

Restoration Ecology for Young Students (REYS) is a year-long, field and classroom-based program that introduces students to the concept and practice of restoration ecology.  At the heart of the REYS program is a desire to engage students in project-oriented learning that address environmental problems within their home places.  Students tour their watershed, learn about biodiversity, and design and implement a restoration project that incorporates the use of native plants.  Since 2017 REYS schools have completed more than 30 restoration projects ranging from school gardens to assisting river restoration efforts. To date, students and teachers have installed and contributed more than 30,000 native plants to local environments.

Designed for 5th – 8th grade students, all lessons are tailored towards Next Generation Science Standards and work to build an understanding of ecology through a combination of direct experiences in the natural world and hands-on classroom-based lessons.  All programs are taught by Institute staff who will work with teachers to organized field trips, identify projects, and conduct lessons.

 “REYS has helped my students become more excited about science and the environment. They love that REYS gives them the opportunity and resources to make an impact in the world and to be taken seriously.” – 5th Grade Teacher, Mill Creek Elementary

“REYS is a wonderful program that helps teach my students to be good stewards of the earth by seeking to understand the principles of ecology. Students learn how everything is interconnected and how humans can work with nature to repair broken relationships within earth systems.”  - 5th Grade Teacher, Traverse City Christian School

fees for REys

This program is heavily subsidized by grant and foundation support, though a small participation fee is requested.  All field trips, transportation, lesson and project supplies (including native plants) and materials are covered by the Institute and its funding partners.

Contact info for REYS

Participation is limited.  Please contact Paul Wiemerslage (paul.w@ausable.org) to learn more and inquire how you can enroll your school (grade) in the program.

REYS Story Map

Current Partners

  • Kalkaska Conservation District

  • Grayling Fish Hatchery

  • Friends of the Au Sable

  • Grand Traverse Conservation District

  • Conservation Resource Alliance

  • Grand Traverse County Road Commission

  • Antrim Conservation District

Current Supporters