Schools in Calgary began naturalizing their schoolyards in the mid-1990's, and the Calgary Zoo has been a leader in the movement since 1998.

The Grounds for Change program is designed to connect you to the experiences and lessons gained from years of working with over 40 Calgary-area schools. We translate knowledge into effective support to schools, helping you avoid common pitfalls and maximize the benefits. We can offer insight into successful methods for planning and maintaining the site and how to use the naturalized area to complement classroom teaching. Regardless of where you are in the naturalizing process, or how old your existing project is, our program can provide relevant resources and service.  Please explore our website, and then contact us for more information.

Grounds for Change has won an Emerald Award! The Emeral Awards recognize excellent environmental initiatives in Alberta. Grounds for Change received their 2009 award for GroundWorks, a year round training and support program designed to encourage teachers to make the best use of a naturalized area using hands-on, curriculum focused activities. Teachers with the training and confidence to use the nature area on a frequent basis serve as a solid foundation to develop the sustainability of a project.