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 4-day environmental conference for high school students, sponsored by the Florida Federation of Garden Clubs, entering the 10th, 11th, and 12th grades, held in July. The SEEK conference is held at Wakulla Springs State Park, located in the Big Bend of Florida near Tallahassee. 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 are field excursions and experiential activities at labs around the UF Campus. Students will visit a lab to understand the Florida aquifer and visit a spring location. We are planning on adding more interactive components and interactions with wildlife this year. Wrapping up the program will be a UF Panel to discuss 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   | Phone: (352) 215-7659