The Ecology School

"We gathered at River Bend Farm in both 2022 and 2023, and give 5 stars! The essence imbued in the farm and campus, coupled with the friendly support from the team, is what brings us back. As professionals in the Regenerative Real Estate movement, we are very discerning about where we gather. Access to nature, net-positive building science, and organic local food form the foundation of how we make our decisions. The River Bend Farm campus boasts two certified Living Building Challenge buildings, a working farm, yurts for easy breakout sessions, gentle access to the Saco River, miles of trails, and organic farm-to-table meals—it hits all the marks. Our programming scope is wide, encompassing mindfulness and ceremony (e.g., collective altar creation, ecstatic dance, lantern walks to the river, biodynamic stir & spray), keynote speeches, panel discussions, live podcast recordings, and space for small group breakout sessions. River Bend Farm can hold this deep space for us. The fire pits are awesome each evening, the back porch doubled as a quiet space for early morning yoga and meditation, and a spontaneous evening open-mic night. The outdoor classroom served as an ideal setting for speeches and poetry, and, not to be overlooked, the daily rewilding ritual of swimming in the Saco River added an unparalleled dimension to our experience. Without reservation, we wholeheartedly recommend The Ecology School at River Bend Farm as a place for your event or gathering. Photos: There is a mixture here to showcase how we have gathered on the land and in the spaces. We definitely love to make magic!"

"While my daughter enjoyed some of the lessons, she came home absolutely starving. This was the running theme with all her classmates I spoke with as well. The portions were way too small for 12 year olds and they often ran out of food. She said it was hard to really have fun because she was hungry all the time. This was extremely upsetting and disappointing to hear."

"The Ecology School at RiverBend Farm in Saco, ME is quite simply amazing. I just enjoyed a 4 day teacher workshop there. The experience was so immersive and inclusive. Meg and Company are so intentional with the way they present info it's really something to experience and see. The grounds are lovely and the food is fresh, filling and delicious. Tide pool field trip- great adventure. The dorms are clean and simple. The few things I would critique are not a big deal and do not take away from the experience at all- is the comfort of the bed (I'm used to a purple mattress), the blinking green light on the air controls(simply put a band aid over it), the hallway light coming on anytime anyone gets out of bed at night to use the restroom ( wonder if pathway lights or some other form of safe guiding lights but low light could be used) and only having mirrors in the rest rooms (would be nice if they were in rooms as well; could use some form of glass that wouldn't break easy). Overall these things don't prevent you from having an amazing time and learning so much! I'm excited to start the new school year because of this program. They really spoil and take of the teachers while you are there. Can't say enough good things about this school. Highly recommend."

"I am a 22 year teaching veteran in Gorham, Maine and feel so incredibly fortunate to have partnered with Ecology School for the last 12 years! Their staff are passionate and professional and the resources provided to teachers help prepare your group for day and overnight programming. The day is filled with motivational outdoor lessons that start with hilarious skits which build prior knowledge and excitement. Every activity (seriously-every single thing) is intentional and grounded in ecology lessons to inspire students to be stewards of the land AND their personal health. The whole dining experience teaches everyone to slow down the meal process by eating family style, in courses. During every meal students learn to respect where our food comes from, to consider how much food we put on their plates, to compost, and to clean up after themselves. Lastly, The Ecology School staff are leaders and advocates in our state for outdoor education- their work is grounded in best practices because they believe AND live their mission. I can’t recommend partnering with The Ecology School enough- it is a highlight of our school year!"

"The Ecology school is top notch. I cannot say enough about their programs! My child attended a summer overnight camp for one week. It was their first time at an overnight camp with other kids. They helped made the transition smooth. I LOVE that kids have to be screen free. I support this idea fully. They live in the moments and learn more by doing without relying on electronics. My child learned about different marine life up close, learned about a porcupine that they would see regularly, enjoyed campfires, loved making new friends, being independent in a safe and supportive environment. And on RIVERBEND FARM! If you’e thinking about trying Ecology school, you’re doing the right thing! We love this school!"