RIVER FALLS — The School District of River Falls has received a $10,000 Environmental Grant from the St. Croix Valley Foundation to support outdoor learning, exploration and restoration at the River Falls School Forest.

The grant is part of the St. Croix Valley Foundation’s 2026 Environmental Grant Program, which awarded a record $442,200 to 29 organizations across the region. The program supports environmental education, community engagement, stewardship and hands-on restoration projects.

Funding for the School District of River Falls will support opportunities for students to learn about and connect with the natural environment through the River Falls School Forest. This grant will help provide outdoor learning experiences that are aligned with the School Forest curriculum for students in pre-K through fifth grade, including installation of an outdoor learning station, bat and bird houses, and improvements to trail signage. 

“This grant will help us create more learning opportunities for students to explore, observe and learn in a natural setting,” said Superintendent David Bell.  “Standardizing our curriculum will make it easier for staff to incorporate the School Forest into their teaching, and ultimately, help us get more students out into the forest.” 

The School District of River Falls strives to inspire all students through challenging, meaningful, and engaging learning experiences, in a safe and collaborative environment. For more information visit www.rfsd.k12.wi.us  

The St. Croix Valley Foundation serves a six-county region spanning Washington and Chisago counties in Minnesota and Burnett, Pierce, Polk and St. Croix counties in Wisconsin. Its Environmental Grant Program was launched in 2024 to support environmental needs and stewardship across the region.

Submitted by School District of River Falls