Welcome to the York Outdoor Lab!

The Outdoor Lab has deep ties to York school and to the history of Monterey. It was originally part of Fort Ord where the army practiced for it's Mediterranian operations during WWII. After the fort went out of commission the land started being cleared of unexploded munitions York decided to acquire some of it. 

This lab is used as a hands-on and project-based learning site for several science classes and provides scenic trails for the York cross country team. These 101 acres of California maritime chaparral have been preserved in their natural state after being transferred to York in 2011. Since then, York has worked to enhance this space by improving trails and eradicating invasive species. Along with the critter cams, which allow us to gather intelligence on the animals who prowl the lab, there is also a course which helps students traverse the terrain while learning the basics of orienteering. The Environmental Science class has spent time charting interesting natural phenomena, as well as harvesting seeds to grow in our greenhouse to reintroduce native species back into the environment. 

Testimonials

• “This addition to our campus has broadened the space where our sports teams practice, as well as a nearby ‘lab’ where our science students can conduct experiments!” 

• “It’s a great place to go walking.” 

• "The outdoor lab's natural beauty is unparalleled"

• “We have a hands-on project based learning experience cooperating with nature”

• “Pulling Pampas Grass was an informative and difficult endeavor”

• “I love all the plants out there even though I am allergic to pretty much all of them.”