Project Learning Tree, the environmental education program of the American Forest Foundation, has named South Lake Tahoe’s Joy Barney one of five 2011 National PLT Outstanding Educators.

Barney is the Conservation Education Program specialist with the U.S. Forest Service’s Lake Tahoe Basin Management Unit.

PLT’s Outstanding Educators are selected for their commitment to environmental education, exemplary use of PLT, and exceptional teaching skills.

Barney will be honored at PLT’s 25th International Coordinators’ Conference in Montgomery, Texas, June 6–9.

Barney was recognized for creating conservation opportunities for the children and adults in five counties around Lake Tahoe and for forging creative and productive partnerships, such as the South Tahoe Environmental Education Coalition. She created Generation Green of Lake Tahoe, a program in which high school students learn job skills, teamwork, and an understanding of natural resources. Many of these students have used this experience as a foray into other volunteer and paid opportunities.

After the Angora Fire, Barney received a PLT GreenWorks grant to create the Angora Burn Tree Education and Planting Project. Using PLT lessons, Barney engaged the community in the post-fire healing process. Generation Green and younger students also learned about and helped reforest the area.

In addition to attending the PLT International Coordinators’ Conference, Barney is invited to attend the World Forestry Center’s International Educators’ Institute July 10–16 in Portland.