Two Local Schools Receive DNR Field Trip Grant

The Indiana DNR awarded 57 grants statewide.

INDIANAPOLIS - Students at 57 Indiana schools will experience the outdoors during the 2024-25 school year thanks in part to a grant program that supports field trips to Indiana State Parks.

The Discover the Outdoors Field Trip Grant Program is for all K-12 schools and is administered through the Indiana Department of Natural Resources Foundation (INRF), the supporting nonprofit of the DNR.

This year, the program is expected to distribute $24,966, the largest amount in its existence. The grant funding will benefit over 4,800 students statewide.

Locally, the following schools will enjoy field trips to a state park property:

• Batesville Intermediate School, Spring Mill
• Milan Elementary School, Versailles State Park

Grants of up to $500 help fund transportation costs, program fees, and classroom supplies related to the field trips.

Since the program’s start in 2013, a total of 287 field trip grants have been awarded, giving 25,000 students the opportunity to visit state parks at a reduced cost to schools and students.

To donate to the field trip program, visit IndianaNRF.org. Indiana has 24 state parks, eight reservoirs, two state forest recreation areas and two off-road state recreation areas eligible for field trip funding. Field trips to state park properties engage students in learning about Indiana's fish, forest, wildlife, natural habitats, and conservation.