Local Teenagers Expand Their Perspectives of Conservation

A quiet room hummed with creativity as a group of teenagers focused on drawing their favorite outdoor spaces. Using Crayola markers as their mediums, they drew scenes with vibrant color and imagination, crafting detailed depictions of beloved landscapes, while others weaved words into evocative descriptions or commemorative poems. This creative session was more than a mere exercise; it was a testament to the teens' profound connection with nature and their budding passion for conservation.

This recent inspiring event unfolded when staff members from Palmer Land Conservancy visited participants in Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s teen program. The Palmer team shared their expertise and deep-seated enthusiasm for land and water conservation with the attentive teens.

Bridging Conservation Efforts

The visit allowed the Palmer team to highlight various local conservation efforts they have spearheaded in the Pikes Peak Region. These initiatives align closely with the zoo's mission to preserve wildlife, creating a comprehensive picture of the interconnectedness of all conservation efforts. Palmer staff described projects that ranged from protecting natural habitats to restoring waterways, emphasizing the importance of each action in the larger environmental context.

Personal Journeys in Conservation

The personal stories shared by the Palmer staff made the session particularly engaging. Each member recounted their unique path into the conservation sector, offering relatable insights and inspiration. From early childhood interest in wildlife to recounting early career roles in protecting vital ecosystems, Palme staff shared narratives that gave the teens tangible examples of how passion can evolve into a purposeful career dedicated to preserving the natural world.

MIRASOL, Looking at the Sun: A Story of Water, Land, and a Way of Life

As part of the visit, the teens were treated to an exclusive screening of Palmer’s new documentary, MIRASOL, Looking at the Sun. In this poignant new film, award-winning filmmaker Ben Knight challenges us to think about land and water use in the West through an intimate portrait of a rural farming community in Pueblo, Colorado, as they fight to protect their water and land, and in turn, their culture and livelihood. Through stunning visuals and compelling storytelling, MIRASOL showcased the profound impact that dedicated conservation work can have on both the environment and the community.

Empowering the Next Generation

By the end of the program, the teens left with more than just knowledge; they gained actionable steps to help protect the outdoor spaces they cherish. The discussions and the film instilled a sense of urgency and empowerment, encouraging them to participate actively in conservation efforts. They learned that every small action, from volunteering with local nonprofits to shopping for locally produced food, contributes to a larger movement toward environmental stewardship.

The Palmer team's visit to the Cheyenne Mountain Zoo’s teen program was not just an educational session; it was a call to action. It underscored the next generation's critical role in conservation and demonstrated how young voices can lead to meaningful change. As these teenagers continue to explore and express their love for the outdoors, they are also stepping into the roles of stewards, ready to protect and preserve the natural world for future generations.

The best part of my day was the presentation about Palmer's conservation [work] and the film based in Pueblo

Carmen, Teen Participant