4H Virtual Forest

The 4-H Virtual Forest is an interactive educational application developed in partnership with the Virginia Cooperative Extension (VCE) and revitalized by the Center for Geospatial Information Technology (CGIT) at Virginia Tech. Originally designed to teach youth ages 9–13 about forest management, ecology, and sustainability, the platform provides an immersive, web-based learning experience that connects science, technology, and environmental stewardship.

The revitalization effort modernizes a legacy Flash-based system into a fully functional, accessible HTML5/JavaScript web application that meets WCAG 2.1 AA accessibility standards and aligns with Virginia Standards of Learning (SOL) for science education.

Purpose and Vision

4-H Virtual Forest introduces learners to key forestry and environmental science concepts through interactive, story-driven modules. Each experience blends visuals, animation, and gamified exercises to engage young learners and foster a deeper understanding of how forests grow, change, and support ecosystems.

While not strictly a geospatial project, 4-H Virtual Forest represents CGIT’s broader commitment to using technology, design, and interactivity to make scientific information accessible, engaging, and meaningful. The revitalization ensures that this legacy educational resource continues to inspire new generations of learners across Virginia and beyond.

Key Features

• Modern Platform: Rebuilt using HTML5 and JavaScript for cross-device compatibility and long-term stability.

• Accessibility: Redesigned to meet WCAG 2.1 AA standards with input from Virginia Tech Accessible Technologies.

• Updated Content: Refreshed text, graphics, and learning activities aligned with current Virginia SOL science standards.

• Interactive Learning Modules: Seven unique lessons guide users through the natural and human processes shaping Virginia’s forests.

• Educator Resources: Includes user guides, activity sheets, SOL links, and additional learning materials.

Core Learning Modules

• Let’s Cruise – Discover how trees grow and forests develop over time.

• Old-Field Succession – Explore ecological regeneration and how abandoned fields return to forest.

• Photosynthesis – Learn how trees produce the energy that sustains life.

• Sprawl – Examine how urban expansion impacts forests and wildlife habitats.

• Timberrr! – Understand sustainable harvesting and responsible resource use.

• Tree Detective – Practice identifying Virginia’s most common tree species.

• Trees: The Renewable Resource – Explore how forests provide renewable materials and long-term benefits.

Impact

The 4-H Virtual Forest revitalization project restores one of Virginia Cooperative Extension’s most engaging and educational web tools, providing teachers, 4-H agents, and students with a modern platform for environmental education. The project reflects CGIT’s technical expertise in digital storytelling, accessibility, and educational software development—bridging the gap between environmental science and interactive technology.

CGIT’s Role

CGIT led the complete reimplementation of the 4-H Virtual Forest, including platform redevelopment, interface redesign, content modernization, and testing for accessibility compliance. Weekly collaboration with VCE ensures that educational content remains accurate, relevant, and aligned with learning objectives.

Access the platform: https://virtualforest.ext.vt.edu/