Institute for Environmental Learning
Paul Schnell
12398 Platten Road
Lyndonville, NY 14094
(716) 765-2084
ielegs@eznet
The Earth's life support system is facing a crisis as
we near the 21st century. Rainforest clearcutting, global warming, soil erosion, and
water pollution all point to human mismanagement and overpopulation as the main causes of
these problems. Each year, 270 million Americans representing 6% of the world
population consume 25% of global natural resources. Education, therefore, begins in
America. The Institute for Environmental Learning is dedicated to
educating the public about the issues that threaten the welfare of our planet and its
species. Using injured and imprinted predators that cannot be released to the wild,
we provide a close-up look at how they adapt to fit into the environment. A variety
of topics other than the predators of North America are part of the program as well.
Human beings have left their trail in countless ways which are harmful to our
futures. As a result, we want to educate the public so they, too, can help with
realistic solutions for a healthier environment.
The public may visit our facility where selected
predators--common and rare--can be observed and photographed up close. Situated on a
14-acre farm, the 19th century embankment barn has been converted into a large classroom
for environmental education.
Currently there are three areas of focus: