Wrangell Institute for Science and Environment (WISE) is a grassroots organization dedicated to teaching science and environmental education. It is our dream to bring a sense of wonder, excitement, and a stewardship of nature so people can carry those special moments with them throughout their life. With this solid foundation, citizens will be able to make informed and enlightened decisions about where they live and their environment around them. Our strength lies in collaborating with many groups and organizations to provide a quality education experience in science and natural history. WISE depends on sponsors, partners, tour receipts and memberships for delivery of its programs.
Two new partnerships for 2011 WISE and Prince William Sound Regional Citizens Advisory Committee recently entered into an agreement to fund $5000 toward Copper River Stewardship program. This year the program will involve a trip from Kennicott Copper Mine to Prince William Sound. Activities will include a trip to the Root Glacier, flight seeing, a tour of the old mine site with the Wrangell St. Elias National Park and Preserve, a trip to Cordova, sea kayaking and educational programs from the Chugach National Forest.
Copper Valley Electric Association, Copper Valley Telephone and WISE are finalizing agreements to provide science kits and in-classroom instruction on 10 science programs. WISE will purchase and prepare lesson plans for the 2012 school year. WISE has been working closely with the Copper River School District to insure our programs meet the State curriculum standards. The Copper River Electric Association Copper Valley Telephone have long invested in scholarships and other educational programs throughout the Copper Basin and Valdez.
In 2010, BLM and WISE developed a cooperative Agreement to implement “Take it Outside” and other educational programs, including aquatic camps, and hiking/camping programs. BLM has pledged $11,500 for the 2011 calendar year.
In April, 2003 WISE, in partnership with Wrangell St. Elias National Park and Preserve, initiated a well received 5th and 6th grade annual program called Earth Discovery Day. Nine other agencies, organizations, and numerous volunteers also participated. The program expanded in 2005 to include 4th grade. Over 130 students attend this program. Membership dollars, In-kind and monetary donations from businesses and foundations help to keep the program running.
WISE, in partnership with Wrangell St. Elias National Park and Preserve, Prince William Sound Community College and High Frequency Active Auroral Research Project (HAARP), hosts public lectures with such topics as birds, earthquakes, volcanoes, nature photography, and many other interesting topics in the region.
WISE initiated an annual Changing Seasons 2nd and 3rd grade program in September 2003, Partnering with WRST, Bureau of Land Management, CRSD, and many other agencies and organizations. About ninety-five students attend this program which is well received by students, teachers and Administrators. Membership dollars, In-kind and monetary donations from businesses and foundations help to keep the program running.
Become a WISE Member
Successes in Building Community Capacity
Copper River Country Nature Tour - Wrangell Institute For Science and Environment
HC60 Box 336E Copper Center, AK 99573 907-822-3575 or 907-822-3282 Contact US
To join us in our efforts, click on the Donate or PayPal logo and contribute in the funding level of your choice. Your donation will enroll you as a member of WISE and you will receive an annual newsletter to keep you updated on events, programs and opportunities. For Alaskan residents who would like to donate using the Pick-Click– Give Program click here. Which ever way you choose to help, WISE sincerely thanks you for your support. Thanks!!
