EE Monthly Report - September Highlights and October Excitement
September has been an exciting month for our Environmental Education (EE) program, filled with program launches, field trips, classroom program sign-ups, program planning, and maintenance activities. Here's a recap of the key highlights for this month and what is to come.Marcus Nack, Environmental Education Manager
Fall Program Registration Opens Strong
September started on a strong note with the opening of fall program registration. Our naturalist, Jacklyn, managed the registration process through a Google Doc, making it easy for participants to sign up for our programs.
Teacher Resource Fair Success
We participated in the Teacher Resource Fair at Southeastern Community College, where we had the opportunity to connect with both familiar and new teachers. This event allowed us to showcase our resources and expand our email list, strengthening our ties with hundreds of educators in the area.
Engaging with Schools and the Community
Our calendars have been packed with field trips, classroom visits, and public programming, allowing us to engage with students and the community. These interactions have been crucial in promoting environmental awareness and education.
PIECES After School Program Takes Off
The PIECES after-school program has officially started, and we have been actively visiting schools and organizing field trips for students. This initiative aims to connect students with nature at Starr's Cave, fostering excitement and curiosity among the participants. We will continue to be a part of this program throughout the school year.
Monarch Butterfly Research Milestone
September marked our dedication to monarch butterfly research. We participated in the Monarch Watch program, collecting data from 197 butterflies to monitor their migration. This achievement is a record for Des Moines County Conservation, and it contributes to the understanding and conservation of this threatened species. Additionally, we hosted two public monarch programs with a total of 120 participants to raise awareness about monarch butterflies.
Looking Ahead to October
As we transition into October, there are exciting offerings and events to look forward to. Nature Center hours will be Tuesday-Friday 9:00am-3:00pm.
Adventure Pack Rentals
We are now offering adventure pack rentals, giving individuals the opportunity to lead their own adventures through the parks. These packs contain tools and activities to enhance your park experience.
Batty About Bats - Starr's Cave Nature Center - 10/6 at 6:30 pm
Join us for a program about bats. Learn more about these fascinating creatures and their importance in our ecosystem.
Hike A Park - (Van Buren County) - 10/12 at 3:00 pm
Explore the beauty of nature during this guided hike at Black Oak Lake in Van Buren County.
Big Holloween - Big Hollow Campground - 10/14 at 4:00 pm
It's time for #BigHolloween!
Come celebrate Halloween in the Campground! This all-ages public event will feature trick-or-treating among the participating RV's, costume contests, a bonfire and s'more roasting, food vendors, music, and prizes for campsite and camper decorations! The night concludes with Haunted Hayrack Rides through the Timber of Terror!
You do not have to camp at the park to participate. Everyone is invited to participate in the events and trick-or-treat among the RV's.
Food trucks will be available from 4-8 for BBQ, hot cider, hot chocolate, coffee.
S'more making supplies will be available for free!
Hike A Park - Wilson Lake (Lee County) - 10/19 at 3:00 pm
Discover the wonders of Wilson Lake through another guided hike in Lee County.
Hike A Park - Starr's Cave - 10/26 at 3:00 pm
Enjoy a hike in the stunning surroundings of Starr's Cave as autumn leaves fall.
We are excited about the upcoming month and look forward to continuing our mission of promoting environmental education and conservation. Thank you for your continued support!
If you have any questions or need further information, please feel free to reach out to us at 319-753-5808. Stay tuned for more adventures and educational opportunities in the coming months!
published Wednesday, September 27, 2023
