Shasta Conservation Fund

Our Work 

The Shasta Conservation Fund (SCF) is a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting natural resources in Shasta County. We partner with the Western Shasta Resource Conservation District, local agencies, and private landowners to manage conservation easements that preserve open space and wildlife habitat.

In addition to land stewardship, SCF provides environmental education for all ages—empowering community members with the knowledge and inspiration to protect and restore the region’s natural resources. By fostering environmental awareness, we help cultivate the next generation of conservation stewards right here in Shasta County.

Environmental Education

Education is the foundation for creating passionate environmental stewards and advocates. By fostering a deeper understanding of our natural world, we empower individuals to make informed decisions that protect and sustain our environment for future generations. The Shasta Conservation Fund is dedicated to providing engaging and accessible educational opportunities for all ages in Shasta County, inspiring a lifelong commitment to conservation and responsible stewardship.

In 2025-2026 Shasta Conservation Fund is working to improve Environmental Education opportunities for Shasta County community members of all ages! We are expanding our environmental education programming with the goal of deepening community engagement with local wildlands and inspire long-term stewardship. Our new programs our easily adapted to work for families, school groups, or other community members. 

Education Programs 

NGSS Aligned Field Trips

Free NGSS-aligned field trips for K–5 students across Shasta County. These experiences give students the chance to learn science in the best classroom there is—the outdoors!

At Lillian Nelson Nature Preserve and Horsetown–Clear Creek Preserve, students explore creeks, meadows, and forests while discovering the plants, animals, and natural processes that shape our local environment. 

Through guided activities and reflection, they learn why healthy open spaces are essential for both people and wildlife—and how they can be stewards of these special places for years to come.

Nature Journaling

A nature journal serves as a powerful tool for deepening one’s connection with the natural world, enhancing observational skills, and fostering mindfulness in outdoor settings.

This program encourages curiosity, ecological awareness, and creative expression, making it an enriching experience for all ages. Whether you’re an aspiring naturalist, an artist, or simply someone who loves the outdoors, Nature Journaling offers a unique opportunity to slow down, observe, and appreciate nature’s intricate details.  

As we explore, we’ll discuss the relationships between flora and fauna, highlighting how native plants sustain wildlife and contribute to environmental balance.

Cyanotype Printing 

Cyanotype printing brings together art, nature, and science! This historic photographic process uses sunlight and natural materials—like leaves, feathers, or flowers—to create striking blue prints that capture the beauty of the natural world.

By combining creativity with observation, cyanotypes encourage participants to slow down, connect with nature, and see conservation through an artistic lens.

Workshops like this spark interest in those who may not otherwise attend a traditional education event.

For more information about the Shasta Conservation Fund check out our website! 

Pollinator Mimic

In this hands-on activity, students step into the role of pollinators to discover how bees, butterflies, and other insects help plants reproduce—often by accident! Using Velcro “pollen” and colorful “flowers,” participants experience how pollen is transferred as pollinators move from plant to plant in search of food.

The activity highlights the importance of pollinators in our ecosystems and food supply while making learning about plant reproduction fun and memorable.