Exploring the Wonders of Environmental Education: A January-February Update
Greetings, nature enthusiasts! As we embrace the new year, our environmental education (EE) programs have kicked into high gear, bringing a blend of outdoor adventures, wildlife encounters, and educational initiatives. Let's dive into the exciting highlights of January and the upcoming plans for February.Marcus Nack, Environmental Education Manager
January Recap:
Spring Programming Blossoms: With the arrival of spring, our programming has sprung to life. We are currently accepting field trip requests, gearing up for a season filled with exploration and learning.
PIECES Field Trip to Starr’s Cave Park and Preserve: Despite a lower-than-expected turnout, our monthly PIECES field trip to Starr’s Cave Park and Preserve was a delightful experience. Nature enthusiasts had the chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of the preserve.
Winter Storms and Program Rescheduling: Winter storms rolled through Southeastern Iowa, leading to program cancellations. However, we are resilient, and most programs are being rescheduled to ensure that our participants don't miss out on the valuable experiences we have planned. The snowy weather also presented a unique opportunity for those eager to try cross-country skiing at Starr’s Cave.
Eagle Watch Program and Winterfest Workshop: The Eagle Watch program, originally scheduled earlier in the month, was moved due to weather conditions. Nonetheless, the rescheduled event on the 20th drew a substantial crowd. Attendees were treated to a breathtaking sight of around 1000 bald eagles gathered near lock and dam 18.
Meanwhile, all conservation staff participated in the 2024 Winterfest Workshop in Coralville. The workshop was an invaluable opportunity to learn about outstanding conservation projects, innovations in the field, and to connect with like-minded professionals.
Summer Camp Planning: Looking ahead, we are already gearing up for an exciting summer! Planning for summer camps has commenced, and we can't wait to provide enriching experiences for our campers.
February Preview:
Owl Prowl Programs: With eagle month behind us, our focus in February turns to owls. We have scheduled Owl Prowl programs exclusively for PIECES on 2/6 and for the public on 2/14, 2/21, and 2/28. As space is limited for public programs, we encourage interested individuals to reserve their spots by calling 319-753-5808.
Field Trips and School Programs: As we bid farewell to January, we are excited to announce the resumption of field trips and school programs. Our team is eager to reconnect with schools and continue inspiring the next generation of environmental stewards.
In conclusion, the past month has been a whirlwind of nature exploration, educational endeavors, and community engagement. As we move into February, the hoots of owls beckon us to further discover the wonders of the natural world. Join us on this journey, and let's continue fostering a deep appreciation for the environment together.
Stay tuned for more updates and adventures on our environmental education journey!
published Friday, January 26, 2024
