El Sauz Field Lessons

Our education program is multifaceted and takes place in the classroom, on the land, and in partnership with many organizations that are helping to lead the way in natural resource conservation education. We deliver programming, knowledge, and leadership skills to students in South Texas, including underserved communities, benefiting the region now and in the future.

East Foundation’s education staff provide field lessons on our ranches so that students can participate in outdoor learning experiences in a living classroom. The interactive lessons and activities presented on these field lessons encourage students to connect with the natural world while learning about ranching, wildlife, and land stewardship. There is no cost to participating schools.

A partnership with the Willacy County Coastal Land Resource Center (CLRC) in nearby Port Mansfield allows us to offer a unique dual-location field lesson. At El Sauz, students learn about cattle ranching, innovative research projects, native wildlife and habitats, invasive species management, and the cultural, economic, and environmental benefits of ranches. Visiting schools also have the option of transitioning to the nearby CLRC facility where they learn about the coastal environment, the Laguna Madre watershed, and how land stewards like the East Foundation help to keep it clean. Field Lessons on El Sauz Ranch allow for a field lesson only to the ranch or both the ranch and CLRC pending site availability. See the packets linked here and here for more information.

In 2022 we upgraded our learning facility at El Sauz. Our new Elliff-El Sauz Education Facility now features seven education pavilions, walking trails, and supporting utilities tailor-made for our immersive learning experiences on the ranch.

For more information, or to participate in a Field Lesson, contact our education staff at education@eastfoundation.netSchools are responsible for providing transportation to and from the East Foundation ranches and for student lunches.

We ask that past participants complete the evaluation form available here.