Field Trip FAQs
Directions to Huestis Demonstration Forest
We are so happy to host forest education programs at the Huestis Demonstration Forest located near Whitecourt, Alberta.
This program allows students from the area to explore a unique working forest through an exciting full-day, curriculum-based field trip.
- This field trip is no-cost and runs on site from 10:00 am – 2:00pm
- A $100/bus subsidy is also available, invoice required - see our busing subsidy policy for details
Program Themes
Forest ecosystems | natural resource development | tree measurements | land use and multiple perspectives | careers | trees and their products | stewardship
This program is offered with support from the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta, Millar Western Forest Products Ltd., Repsol and Alberta Environment and Parks.
Available Programs
Grade 4
Explore the living cycle of the forest by studying plants, how they grow and the role of decomposition. Students will consider the forest as a natural resource and discover how people connect with local forests.
Curriculum Connections:
- Plant Growth and Changes
- Waste in Our World
- Alberta: A Sense of the Land
Grade 6
Connect with the forest by examining the natural and human factors that shape the forest landscape. Students will identify our forest plants, and use real forestry tools to explore careers.
Curriculum Connections:
- Trees and Forests
- Evidence and Investigations
Junior High
Uncover the interactions in our forest ecosystems by exploring its symbiotic relationships, succession system, and soils along with traditional and modern human uses of our plants and natural resources.
Curriculum Connections:
- Gr 7 | Plants for Food and Fibre
- Interactions and Ecosystems
Junior High | WILDLIFE PROGRAM
This new program will utilize our on-site wildlife cameras to consider how species move and interact in the forest with an emphasis on species at risk and natural development.
Curriculum Connections:
- Environment & Outdoor Education
- Gr. 7 | Interactions and Ecosystems
- Gr. 9 | Biological Diversity
Senior High
Compare old growth and new growth forests through a comprehensive plot study and explore the opportunities and challenges of a multi-use forest area.
Curriculum Connections:
- CTS – Natural Resources – Forestry/Wildlife
- Environment & Outdoor Education
- Biology 20/30 Changes in Living Systems
- Ecosystems and Population Change
Special Events at Huestis
Spring Tree Planting Event
Elementary school students are invited to join the Huestis Demonstration Forest partners for a special tree planting and education event. This fun-filled day will feature hands-on activities, demonstrations, education stations and of course you’ll get to try your hand at tree planting.
Special Events at Huestis
CTF / CTS Special Harvesting Event
This is your chance to watch forest harvesting in action and have the opportunity to visit with operators. A perfect fit to enhance any curriculum that highlights careers, technology and Alberta’s Forest Sector! This program will fill up quickly so get your application in soon!
Contact program coordinator Julie Korver with any questions.
Please inquire if you would like more detail or have a special program request!