Teachers' Comments About Past Tours
On the last day of the Tour, the teachers meet in the hotel conference room to share their experiences from the Tour. Below are some of the responses from the tour evaluation.
What did you enjoy most about the tour?
The knowledge of the forestry industry, top to bottom overview. The contacts made and ideas exchanged. The quick pace with not too much wasted time in pontification... we SAW what was REALLY happening. The pampering was a cool bonus. Teachers aren't feted like this often.
Meeting such knowledgeable people that can connect with adults and students. Seeing the broad range of industries and getting in depth experiences in the field.
The hands on experiences in the mills and the hikes. It was so refreshing to not sit and listen to lectures but to get out and really see what was being taught.
What new perceptions do you have about forestry?
My understanding has grown twofold by this tour and my perception has completely changed. As with the general public my perception of logging was completely negative. I realize now that the forestry industry is and has been for years conserving its waste of wood products and using practices that sustain forest growth, not ending it.
I have been amazed at the technology and techniques that we have witnessed to get the most out of the trees and to cause the least waste as possible. The forest products industry seems to strive as much as possible to also be environmentally friendly as well as providing wood products for all of us to use.
I had no idea how much "process" and "planning" went into the making of paper or plywood. I also saw a real concern for the environment and air quality, water quality, and treatment of their wastes (which they even used!).
Would you recommend this tour to other teachers?
Yes, definitely! I gained a lot of practical knowledge that I can pass on to my students. I am also a lifelong learner, and I appreciate the opportunity to expand upon my own knowledge.
Absolutely! You've inspired me to further my knowledge and try to be a certified Environmental Educator. The best part of this program is getting out of a classroom setting and seeing, smelling, and feeling the whole process of managed forestry (from tree to factory to product). Excellent stuff!!
Yes - very well planned, super resources, loved the "prizes", that was fun! The food was great and the accommodations were good.
Absolutely! Awesome resources, invaluable information, doors that were opened to other opportunities, interchange of ideas, new materials, contact with new resource people.
Yes! I learned so much about wood production in our state and others. I feel that no matter what you teach, you could be able to relate it to this workshop.
Yes, it heightens one's awareness about forests and forest products grown and built in the state of NC and hopefully will make everyone a better steward of the land and forests after attending.