Working with Big Thompson Watershed Coalition, soil scientists from Colorado State University, the wildland fire team at Loveland Fire Rescue Authority, and water quality experts from the City of Loveland, Heart-J Center is taking part in multiple projects to help the landscape recover from the fire; to support research that will further understanding of fire impacts and recovery processes; to mitigate potential damage from future wildfires by improving forest health; and to protect Northern Colorado’s drinking water supplies from soot-filled runoff. We will share these stories of impact over the coming months and get in touch if you have questions or suggestions for more ways to make a difference.

In partnership with Combat Recovery Foundation and NoCo Sawyers, the Backcountry Sawyers initiative provides veterans with training in wildfire recovery and mitigation, including chainsaw skills, horse logging, forest restoration, trail building, and more. Based in the Cedar Park burn area, this project blends conservation and technical training, while providing veterans with meaningful projects and a growing community. Send an email if you would like to get involved.

Funded by a multi-year grant from The Colorado Trust, ELEVATE is Heart-J Center’s new nature-based mental health program. We are seeking community partners interested in serving their clients and staff with this program, as well as therapists, yoga/mindfulness instructors, and volunteers who want to help make this program incredible.

Learn more and get involved!

Three days a week during the school year, Heart-J Center provides an outdoor school for homeschool students from 3rd to 8th grades. With a rich and varied curriculum, exploring the ecosystems, wildlife, and history of Sylvan Dale, the students earn science credit and PE credit (for all that hiking!) This wonderful program is filled to capacity for the 2025/2026 school year but we are keeping a waiting list, so please send an email if you would like more information.

Since 2014, Heart-J Center has partnered with more than 50 schools from six local school districts to offer outdoor education field trips for K-12 students. Making use of inspiring outdoor classroom spaces, our knowledgable instructors provide an unforgettable day for students, teachers, and parents alike, with topics including wildlife, river ecology, connecting with horses, challenge course, hiking, geology and. so much more. Now planning outdoor ed field trips for Fall 2025. Learn More

Heart-J Center offers classes and field trips for the community. Join us for watercolor, hiking, Qi Gong/Gong Bath, connecting with horses, astronomy, and more. Registration for most programs is “choose-your-own price.” We add to our upcoming program list regularly.

Sign up for our monthly program e-newsletter so you don’t miss the fun!