UNF Institute of Environmental Research and Education

The Institute of Environmental Research and Education is excited to collaborate with the Northeast Florida Regional Council and other partners on a study funded by the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation to fill critical data gaps about aquatic organism passage, floodwater drainage, and infrastructure conditions at road-stream intersections across three major rivers in Northeast Florida.

IERE Research Scientist and incoming Visiting Professor Jesscia Barnes, Ph.D., and IERE Research Associate Sydney Barrett, MS, visited the Lake George Conservation Area and Bulow Creek State Park to establish research techniques and protocols for the project. They will lead a team of four UNF students to conduct field research.

Introducing IERE's newest YELP students.🎊 We received many applications for our 3rd year of the Youth Environmental Leadership Program and are so impressed with all the students who applied. Last week was YELP's Orientation at UNF. During this packed day, students learned about the program and IERE, got to know each other, walk around our beautiful campus, and so much more.🌴 Over the next year, each student will complete environmental training courses, create a community based project, and volunteer locally with the help of our IERE team. This is such an awesome group of students and we are looking forward to seeing their amazing work this year.✏️🌍

Registration Deadline Extended: YESS at UNF!

We are excited to share that registration for the Youth Environmental Summer Summit (YESS) has been extended!

This free, half-day experience provides high school students the opportunity to engage in interactive learning, explore environmental topics, and connect with UNF faculty and programs.

Deadline to register: Thursday, May 28 @ 5pm

We encourage interested students to register soon as space is limited.
🔗 https://www.unf.edu/environment/youth-summit.html

Students in IERE’s Environmental Sustainability Living-Learning Community recently came together for a tree planting on campus, making a lasting impact while building community along the way. Check out the new persimmon tree by the UNF Cafe! Thank you, , for all your help!

🌿 Help us spread the word!
The Youth Environmental Summer Summit (YESS) at UNF is a free, half-day experience where high school students can explore real-world environmental topics, connect with peers, and get a preview of college-level learning.

June 1, 10:00 AM – 2:00 PM
📍 University of North Florida

Please share and invite a high school student who may be interested! Spots are limited, and registration is open now.

Learn more & register: https://www.unf.edu/environment/youth-summit.html

We had an amazing time at our IERE Summer Staff Retreat!
From reflecting on a successful school year to planning for what’s ahead, it was a day full of connection and momentum. We shared a great lunch, homemade goodies, and celebrated our team with superlatives!

Summer is in full swing at IERE! ☀️ As we plan for the upcoming academic year, we’re also taking time to reconnect with nature, just like our students did during the final adventure of the school year, on our Nature Prescription trip, “Float Away from Finals” at Ichetucknee Springs State Park. 💧

Whether floating in the springs or relaxing by the water, students were encouraged to slow down, recharge, and enjoy the outdoors in their favorite way during finals week. Thank you to everyone who joined us! 💚

YELP applications close at 11:59 PM tomorrow (May 8th)!

Calling all high school students ready to make an impact! Apply to UNF’s Youth Environmental Leadership Program (YELP), a yearlong experience in environmental science, leadership, and real-world change.

💡 Build leadership skills
🌱 Create your own environmental project
🎓 Gain a pre-college experience at UNF

Apply now: https://www.unf.edu/environment/yelp.html

Please share with students, families, and educators who may be interested!

We are incredibly proud to celebrate the first graduates of our Environmental Science program! 💚💚💚

Once again, Congratulations to our graduating seniors and to ALL students for wrapping up the spring semester! We closed out an amazing academic year nothing but good vibes at our End‑of‑Semester Student Picnic. 🎉

Students from across IERE programs including Environmental Science Majors, the Environmental Leadership Program, the Environmental Sustainability Living‑Learning Community, and KAO joined us for a relaxing afternoon by Candy Cane Lake. With games, snacks, and some much‑needed nature contact, it was the perfect way to refuel during finals week. ✨Wishing you all a wonderful summer ahead!