Our mission is to renew the connection to the earth & deepen the awareness of place through nature-based learning.

Why Nature Based Learning?

Nature-Deficit Disorder, as defined by author and researcher Richard Louv, is the human cost of alienation from nature, including: diminished use of the senses, attention difficulties, and higher rates of physical & emotional illnesses. This disorder can be detected in individuals, families, and communities.

Nature-based learning reverses the negative effects that alienation from nature has had on modern humanity – young and old. Our programs provide direct sensory experiences in nature. We catch frogs and salamanders, we sleep in snow shelters, we track wild animals, we harvest acorns and make food, we nap in the afternoon sun, we silently watch the moonrise, and we feast on wild berries. We provide nature-connection.

Our Philosophy

We believe in the power of nature-connection. The cycles of the sun & moon, the calls of birds, frogs and wolves, and the changing of seasons are all a part of our natural blueprint. Separating our- selves from nature creates an unnatural condition for humans, often with negative effects.

Direct immersion in nature is healthy. Nature-connection is healing.

Many studies have touted the healing qualities of nature on the mind, body, and soul. This should come as no surprise because humans have spent over 99.9% of our existence living in direct con- tact with nature. A 1998 meta-study of over 12,000 youth demonstrates that outdoor education has a positive and lasting impact on the following characteristics:

  • Leadership
  • Independence
  • Self-Awareness
  • Self-Confidence
  • Communication
  • Interpersonal Skills
  • Academic Performance

Using the 8Shields Mentoring Model, our staff provide a culture of nature-connection at White Pine that we believe is unique and powerful. To learn more about the 8Shields Mentoring model, click here to see a short video.