Welcome to ECO!

ECO is the Environmental Club Outdoors, an extracurricular program of the East Rochester School District. We are committed to providing students with the opportunities to experience nature, participate in outdoor activities, encourage environmental sustainability, promote environmental awareness through education, and encourage an appreciation of the natural environment by being in it.

Here are some important questions and answers:

What is ECO? ECO is East Rochester’s Environmental Club Outdoors. We hike, bike, and participate in other outdoor activities in the parks and natural places of the Rochester area. Through and during these activities, we work to develop outdoor skills, knowledge, and ethics in our students. In addition, we discuss issues that aff ect the environment both locally and globally and take actions that support environmental sustainability and protection. It is our strong belief that the best way to learn about the environment and value the environment is to be in
the environment.

What’s it like when we go outdoors? When we go outdoors, we try to have a natural experience and awaken our senses of sight, sound, smell, and touch. We move and act in a way that allows us to become more aware of the things taking places around us, and we follow the principles of Leave No Trace so that we do not disturb the living and non-living things in the places we visit.

Who can join? ECO is currently open to 5th and 6th graders; high school students serve as mentors and guides. Interested 7th and 8th graders should meet with the club advisors.

How often do we meet? Each month, we have one outdoor activity when we travel to a county or state park or other location. We also have one meeting per month when we discuss environmental issues and plan our outdoor events. Other activities will be scheduled as needed.

What can I expect from ECO? You can expect fun, adventure, and friendship, and you can expect to learn about nature, the environment, and yourself. Parents, you can expect that our advisors and student guides will take the utmost care to ensure your child’s safety in the outdoors.

What can ECO expect from me? We expect enthusiasm and a commitment from everyone who plans to participate. This commitment means that you attend all meetings and events and participate in all outdoor activities.

What Do I Need To Participate? All you need to get started is permission from a parent or guardian. Students going on hikes should have sturdy shoes that fi twell. These can just be sneakers with tread in decent condition, and do not need to be hiking boots or other heavy-duty footwear. Student-owned bikes will be needed for any rides, and helmets are mandatory. Specific information with required and suggested clothing/equipment will be provided before each outdoor activity, and we will do our best to outfit any students who cannot provide their own gear.