Around the time I got my first Instagram I also went on my first EPI trip. My nerves surrounding EPI’s unplugged policy had less to do with being offline and more to do with being disconnected from my parents. 12 years later I went on my first EPI course as an adult and employee. Although adults don’t have to go unplugged on EPI courses , I decided to go as unplugged as possible. I wanted to challenge myself to feel as connected to the student experience as possible. Here is

Ryan Binga has a pretty interesting job. One day he might be in a Missoula classroom teaching students what to do if they encounter a bear. The next day he could be creating videos for Wildlife Wednesdays on Instagram, and the day after that he might be leading a bird count. How did he get there at such a young age? Through MFWP AmeriCorps, a program that not only makes a significant impact on conservation but also provides career opportunities for its members.

If you are a teacher considering whether to bring students abroad, you’ve probably felt the weight of that decision now more than ever. Shifting U.S. travel advisories, international tensions, and a news cycle that never slows down. These are very real issues that deserve real acknowledgement. At Ecology Project International, these questions are always at the forefront of our minds: Should we travel right now? Is it worth the hassle? We believe the answer is yes, and we want

Yellowstone was the first national park ever created anywhere in the world, with a history spanning more than 150 years. And although it remains one of the least human-altered landscapes in the United States, the impacts of climate change are already becoming visible across this iconic conservation area. EPI students learn about this impacts through participatory science while collecting data for ongoing research

At just 23 years old, Maeve Cain has lived a lot, and in a lot of places. In that journey, she has taught in Yellowstone, instructed ski lessons in Idaho, and now works as a science educator in one of the most diverse national parks in the world: Olympic National Park in Washington. And we're proud to say that EPI has been part of that path.

What are the odds? Two childhood friends once traveled to Mexico together on an EPI trip, and years later, fate brought them back together, this time as coworkers. In this interview, they share what that journey meant to them, how their paths crossed again, and what it's really like to work alongside someone who's been part of your story since the beginning.

Chandra Dunbar and Birgid Niedenzu are bringing the world’s most biodiverse ecosystems into their classrooms. By joining EPI’s professional development, these educators traded traditional lectures for hands-on research in Costa Rica and Mexico. Now, their students are solving real-world problems with urchins and sea turtles, sending engagement "through the roof". Discover NGSS-aligned PD that slashes prep time and reignites your passion for teaching.

The Galápagos Islands were fundamental to our understanding of life's evolution on Earth, but the effects of climate change are already evident in this natural sanctuary. Because they are islands, their ecosystems are extremely fragile and now face serious risk. Faced with this alarming reality, Ecology Project International (EPI), in partnership with the local organization ECOS, is strengthening its commitment to working with young people through conservation-focused educati

At EPI, conservation has always been about more than science. It’s about people: students, educators, communities, and supporters working together to protect the natural world. That’s why we’re thrilled to welcome Mia Wais as EPI’s new Director of Philanthropy. Mia joins our team with a passion for building relationships and helping supporters feel deeply connected to the impact they make.

For 20 years, EPI Mexico has inspired more than 64,000 young people to connect with nature through science, community, and hands-on conservation. Learn about the stories and impacts behind two decades of transformative education.

Citizen science is rewriting what we know about Yellowstone’s wildlife. Two groundbreaking studies—powered by data collected by students and volunteers—reveal that bison are ecosystem engineers and that large herbivores defy the old grazer-browser labels. From DNA metabarcoding of scat to tracking bison herds, these discoveries show how community-driven science is transforming conservation and inspiring the next generation of ecologists—thanks in part to the fieldwork of EPI

At Pacuare Reserve, a young girl saw a leatherback turtle for the first time and discovered her scientific calling. Today, programs like EPI Costa Rica’s continue to inspire local students to protect biodiversity and become agents of change.

En la Reserva Pacuare, una joven vio por primera vez una tortuga baula y descubrió su vocación científica. Hoy, programas como el de EPI Costa Rica siguen inspirando a estudiantes locales a proteger la biodiversidad y convertirse en agentes de cambio.

Third and final chapter of Ana Beatriz’s Galapagos journey—wildlife wonders, unforgettable moments, and inspiring stories that ignite a powerful call to protect this fragile paradise.

Exploring Galápagos with EPI: wildlife tracking, invasive species control, and kayaking reveal the archipelago’s unique natural wonders.

EPI courses combine hands-on science, field research, cultural exchange, and conservation to build skills and connect students with nature.

EPI celebra 25 años inspirando a los jóvenes a través de la ciencia para liderar la conservación en un mundo que se enfrenta a urgentes retos medioambientales.

EPI celebrates 25 years empowering youth through science to lead conservation in a world facing urgent environmental challenges.

Transforming education for educators in La Paz through a collaborative program by Teton Science Schools and Ecology Project International.