Recent Studies/Findings - Green Chimneys

Student Zoe walks her horse partner Gandalf out of the horse barn during a specialized therapy small group session of Hoof Harmony

Partnering with Horses to Learn About Self

April 9, 2024

Documentation of Nature-Based Programs
at Green Chimneys

This documentation report was developed through a multi-phase process and represents a qualitative examination of the impacts of Green Chimneys’ farm and nature-based programs from the perspective of the teaching staff

The research team from The Institute for Human-Animal Connection (IHAC) – comprised of research staff, graduate-level social work students, and external partners and colleagues – first conducted a comprehensive review of the relevant research literature to evaluate the impact of nature-based interventions on the social-emotional learning and positive youth development of children and adolescents with psycho-social and special education needs.

A cornerstone of this process was to underscore the importance of actively ensuring animal welfare and environmental sustainability in nature-based interventions designed primarily to improve human health and development.

Research team members then directly observed Green Chimneys’ programming to gain further understanding of the diverse nature-based interventions offered to students and their apparent effects. Semi-structured interviews with over 100 Green Chimneys staff members were conducted across the farm, school, clinical, and residential life departments.

Download the full report

In partnership with The Institute for Human-Animal Connection, and as part of The Sam and Myra Ross Institute’s work to advance the field of human-animal interaction through advocacy, education and research, Documentation of Nature-Based Programs at Green Chimneys is available for review.

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Gyrfalcon

Crowned the best for falconry in medieval times, gyrfalcons were once reserved for kings. As the largest falcon in the world, with exquisite plumage ranging from bright white to deep charcoal, gyrs are revered for their powerful skill of flight. Their long wings make hunting waterfowl from 3,000-feet-high a feasible and fantastical feat. This falcon was flown in the sport of falconry for several years.