Calling all teachers, parents, and educators! The Western Riverside Regional Conservation Authority (RCA) is proud to present the 146 Project—an interactive and fun educational opportunity catered to students in grades K-8. The 146 Project encourages students to spend time outdoors while learning about the 146 different plant and animal species protected by the Multiple Species Habitat Conservation Plan (MSHCP), one of the largest plans in the country. From the long-tailed weasel scurrying around to the golden eagle flying high in the sky, you never know what protected plant and animal species you may encounter at one of the conservation lands in western Riverside County! And, by completing fun 146 Project tasks, students will receive a free “fun patch.”

The 146 Project was developed by the RCA in partnership with local Girl Scout Katie, of the Girl Scouts of San Gorgonio Council, who presented the idea to the RCA as part of her Gold Award. Katie’s idea was to connect students with the natural environment around them—encouraging them to explore the great outdoors as they discover educational takeaways about how the MSHCP helps preserve the region’s natural environment. The 146 Project will help students learn about protecting open space, conserving plant and animal species, and preserving natural habitats. The implementation of this program helps highlight the RCA’s efforts in protecting Federal- and State-listed threatened and endangered species and their sensitive habitats.

The 146 Project features several easy and fun opportunities for students in grades K-8 to earn a 146 Project fun patch that can be worn on a jacket, vest, or backpack. Depending on the student’s grade level, adventure and knowledge seekers are presented with a series of learning activities, which may include visiting at least one of eight habitat preserves listed on the RCA’s website, completing an art activity, writing a paragraph, and taking a short quiz to test new knowledge and record participation. The RCA aims to help connect western Riverside County’s future leaders with nature, by instilling a positive outlook toward environmental stewardship and the plants and animals that inhabit the region.

Don’t wait! Sign up today to expand your students’ knowledge and help them earn one of four exclusive fun patches! Please visit www.146project.org for more information.