The mission of SEEK is to increase student environmental literacy through hands-on and field-based educational experiences, to inspire student interest and involvement in environmental conservation and protection; and to promote student development of environmental stewardship ethics as well as environmental career opportunities.

Save the Earth’s Environment through Knowledge (SEEK) is an annual four-day environmental conference for high school students, sponsored by the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs, entering the 10th, 11th, and 12th grades, held in the summer. The SEEK Conference is held at the University of Florida in Gainesville. Students visit St. Marks National Wildlife Refuge (one of the largest and deepest fresh water springs in the world) and participate in the Coastal Explorer Program. The SEEK conference focuses on student initiative, leadership, and today’s critical environmental issues:

 climate change, energy conservation, alternative energy, and sustainability

 water quality and quantity (water pollution and water conservation)

 Loss of wildlife habitat due to deforestation and development 

Some of the activities planned in 2024 are field excursions and experiential activities at labs on and off the UF Campus. Students will have the opportunity to visit one of the area’s best springs and will have a nature hike and scavenger hunt built around understanding the role of native flora and fauna. We have also received a generous donation by the Florida Wildflower Foundation and we will be exploring the role of wildflowers in our ecosystem. In addition, students will interact with current UF undergrad and grad students and explore environmental science careers and offerings at UF.

Facilities: Dorm rooms with four attendees per two rooms sharing a private bathroom. All linens must be provided by the Attendee. A “what to pack” will be sent at time of final registration acceptance. Meals and transportation to activities will be provided. Presentations will be at various locations around campus and nearby UF locations. 

Chair, Jennifer Seymore  jlwhiteuf@gmail.com  | Phone: (352) 215-7659