Translation. Region: Russian Federal
Source: Save Nature Foundation
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On September 20th, the Imperial Farm, a vibrant educational event, "NOT a Geography Lesson at the Imperial Farm. In Search of Fantastic Animals," was held at the Tsarskoye Selo State Museum-Reserve. Organized by the Russian Geographical Society, the "Revival of Nature" Charitable Foundation was a traditional partner. This event was a true celebration of learning and discovery.
Fifty participants, including children and adults, gathered for a captivating journey back in time. They witnessed the splendor of the imperial court, soaked in the atmosphere of the past, and experienced the richness of Russia's natural heritage.
The organizers made sure the event was engaging and accessible to all participants. It began with a demonstration video of the "NOT a Geography Lesson" project, which explained the essence of the educational process and inspired the students to explore further.
The next step was a welcoming speech by Yana Yuryevna Fedosova, Director of the Youth Affairs Department of the Russian Geographical Society. She emphasized the importance of fostering environmental responsibility among the younger generation of Russians.
The official part of the presentation was continued by a representative of the "Revival of Nature" Charitable Foundation. Nadezhda Tsukanova, the Foundation's copywriter and social media manager, shared information about current initiatives aimed at environmental education, the conservation of natural resources, and rare species. The children then watched videos produced by the "Revival of Nature" Charitable Foundation.
The young explorers then met the farm's staff. Lyudmila Kashtanova, coordinator of the Tsarskoye Selo Museum-Reserve, shared fascinating facts about the development of agriculture and botany in the 19th century. Olga Filippova, the reserve's chief park curator, told the participants about unique plants brought from around the world and how horticulture developed in Russia and around the world in the 19th century. She also described which exotic plants were most commonly found in the gardens of the Imperial Residence, and which plants, so common today, were imported and acclimatized in Russia. The participants also met with scientists who made significant contributions to the development of horticulture in the 19th century.
After the theoretical part, the participants moved directly to the Imperial Farm grounds, where the real fun began. The tour followed a route that included ancient structures dating back to the 19th century.
The first stop on the route was a working stable, located in a former cowshed. Here, the children had their first encounter with the world of true professionals—the farm workers. They were given a detailed account of the Orlov Trotters, favored by Russian Emperors Alexander I and Nicholas II, and were introduced to modern methods of caring for these noble animals.
The children not only listened to the guides' stories but also got to participate in the process themselves: they brushed the mane of the charming pony Karamelka and learned about the behavior and nutrition of horses. Many felt a special connection with nature, as interacting with animals helps them better understand the environment and the responsibility each person has for its preservation.
The tour continued, covering various areas of the farm. The next stop was the former dairy pavilion and calf barn, where restorers preserved the original feeding troughs and even sections of the floor. Participants then visited the former goat, sheep, and poultry houses.
The most touching moment of the tour was a walk through the old Pensioners' Stables, built specifically for the eight elderly horses of Alexander I, who served the Russian Emperor faithfully.
The final stop of the program was a visit to the 19th-century cemetery located next to the Pesionary Stables. This memorial has remained virtually unchanged since the reigns of Alexander I and Nicholas II. It is here that 120 horses of the imperial family, some of which are famous for their role in historical events in Russia, find their final resting place.
All the children were deeply engaged in the excursion, asking many questions and actively participating at every stop. Despite the weather, the exploration was fun and engaging, leaving a lasting impression on the young nature and history lovers.
The final event of the festival was the awards ceremony. Each participant received commemorative souvenirs bearing the logo of the Russian Geographical Society and the "Revival of Nature" Charitable Foundation, cementing their sense of involvement in the great cause of environmental conservation.
And although the weather was changeable, the mood remained excellent.
Thanks to a joint initiative by the Russian Geographical Society and the Revival of Nature Charitable Foundation, children were given the opportunity to connect with history, feel the spirit of imperial traditions, and gain a deeper understanding of the importance of caring for nature.
Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source. It represents an accurate account of the source's assertions and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.
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