Cornell students and other members of the community are needed as volunteer educators for this year's 4-H Environmental Appreciation Days, May 7, 10 and 11.

Organized by Tompkins County Cooperative Extension, the Environmental Appreciation program is designed to help local fourth-, fifth- and sixth-graders learn more about the natural environment and foster a sense of stewardship. This year's workshops will take place at Cornell Plantations, EcoVillage, local state parks, schools and other sites around the county.

The event, which has been running continuously for over 20 years, has become an environmental tradition in Tompkins County. Last year, more than 1,200 students participated, and a total of 70 volunteer instructors taught hands-on workshops about birds, trees, composting, geology, pond ecology and more. Instructors can volunteer for one, two or all three days and can either work alone or co-teach with a friend. No prior teaching experience is required, and teaching supplies and help in planning lessons are available from 4-H.

To sign up or get more information, contact Sharon Anderson at Tompkins County Cooperative Extension, (607) 272-2292, ska2@cce.cornell.edu, or Joann Gruttadaurio at in the Cornell Department of Floriculture and Ornamental Horticulture, (607) 255-1792, jg17@cornell.edu.