Neighborhood Ecology Corps, for grades 6-8, uses enjoyable, unique and stimulating activities to excite students about ecology, science and environmental stewardship. Every week we will take an expedition into the natural world to learn more about the relationship between your neighborhood and nature at Walnut Creek Wetlands Center.
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Each school year a new group of volunteer students meet one afternoon weekly developing their interest and scientific skills in more understandable ways. Through weekly after school meetings at local community centers, expeditions on Teacher Workday/Early Release days, and at least two camping trips annually, students participate in outdoor explorations to:

- See, Understand What They See, and to Enjoy What They Understand!
- State and National Parks/Preserves/Refuges 
- Ecology of the Local Community 
- Eco-restoration Activities  
- Professionals in the Environmental Field

Students may elect to continue into a 2 or 3 year program, culminating in a Leadership Camp. 
This program is offered at NO COST to students or their families.
The Neighborhood Ecology Corps (NEC) is an initiative focused on Nature & Community, developing environmentally literate citizens wishing to improve their community.
NEC gets teams of students involved in assessing the condition, assets, and needs of their shared neighborhoods from cultural, ecological, health, livability, and safety aspects. ​


We'd love to have you or your child explore the N.E.C. program! If you are interested in this cost free opportunity for growth and learning, sign up at the link below!

Some Photos of our Year 3 Experience:

Some Photos of Year 2 Experiences

N.E.C. in the News!

UNC-TV Black Issues Forum, July 2016
Top of the Carolinas Excursion, June 2016
NC Environmental Education Blog, ​2017 Educator Spotlight
​NEC is made possible by partnerships between Center for Human-Earth Restoration, NC State College of Natural Resources, Raleigh City Parks and Recreations, NC State Parks, and the National Parks Service.​