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The Saigh Foundation ECO-ACT Environmental Leadership Program

Part of the MBG Teen Network

Since 1981, the Eco-Act Environmental Leadership Program at the Missouri Botanical Garden has educated high school and elementary students in ecology and environmental science. This unique program has become a stepping stone for introducing students to educational and/or environmental careers, as well as becoming role models and ecologically literate citizens. It has been in continuous operation since its founding over 40 years ago, and was endowed by the Saigh Foundation in 2008.

Rising juniors and seniors from partner high schools are eligible to apply. Once accepted, students complete one week of required summer training before taking Eco-Act as a for-credit class during the school year.

 

The program has three main components:

 

Teaching

Eco-Act participant teaching 4th graders

Along with 1–3 other students from their high school, students are paired with a nearby fourth grade classroom to teach a total of eight lessons throughout the school year on various ecology and environmental action topics. In addition to classroom lessons, the high school teaching teams also lead two field trips to the Litzsinger Road Ecology Center.

Environmental Project

Eco-Act participant leading an environmental program

During the school year, Eco-Act students work in teams to identify, research and take action on an environmental issue in their school community. The first semester is focused on research, and the second semester focuses on action. This work culminates in a presentation to teachers, family members, friends and Garden staff.

Outdoor Adventure and Service

Eco-Act participant rock climbing

Eco-Act offers outdoor adventure opportunities during the summer and school year to build confidence and teamwork, such as rock climbing, horseback riding, caving, paddling and more. Eco-Actors also participate in environmental service including trash cleanups, invasive species removals, community science projects and volunteering at an urban farm.

 

Get Involved

STUDENTS:
We are currently accepting applications for the 2026–2027 school year!

APPLY

Students must be attending a participating High School to enroll in the program. Current high school partners include: Metro Classical and Academic High School, University City High School, Rosati-Kain Academy, Crossroads College Prep and Nerinx Hall.

For more information, contact the Eco-Act Program Coordinator at (314) 577-9466 or e-mail eco-act@mobot.org.

TEACHERS/ADMINISTRATORS:
Interested in hosting Eco-Act at your school? Please contact the Eco-Act Program Coordinator at (314) 577-9466 or e-mail eco-act@mobot.org.

 

FAQs

Who should apply for Eco-Act?

We are looking for rising juniors and seniors who are passionate about the environment and want to share that passion with others. You might be a great fit for this program if you:

  • Want to gain experience presenting and teaching
  • Enjoy nature and spending time outside
  • Want to make positive change in your school and community
  • Are interested in meeting likeminded young people from around St. Louis

Does it cost anything to participate in Eco-Act?

Nope! Eco-Act is completely free for accepted students. We also provide meals and gear for our outdoor adventure outings, and we can help with transportation to and from Eco-Act activities that happen outside of school. 

What is the workload like for this course?

Because so much of Eco-Act is hands-on and fun, sometimes students expect it to be an “easy” class with a light workload. You’ll be responsible for completing teaching and environmental project assignments, as well as communicating with your team members and coordinating lessons with your 4th grade class. Expect to work hard and practice your organization and time management skills! 

What are the time commitments outside of school?

During the summer, you are required to attend one session of summer training, which we call Eco-Week. During the school year, you are required to attend at least one weekend outdoor outing and one environmental service project (at least three hours long). In addition, we hold mandatory monthly workshops from 3:30–6 p.m. at the Missouri Botanical Garden.

Eco-Act is endowed by the Saigh Foundation