Our interdisciplinary programs add hands-on depth and expertise to classroom studies. They spark students’ excitement about their connection to the living environment while teaching them about local and global ecosystems. Programs are presented by experienced environmental educators, naturalists and scientists. Presenters can tailor programs to specific age groups and study interests, and the length of programs can be varied from between 45 minutes to 1.25 hours. Some programs are classroom only and for hands-on programs we recommend groups of 75 or less.
Rates
Assembly Programs (200 student limit)
First Program: $225 + mileage @ $.55/mile
Same Day Additional Programs: $125 each
Classroom Programs (40 student limit)
First Program: $175 + mileage @ $.55/mile
Same Day Additional Programs: $85 each
School Residency Programs
$1500/week - Additional materials, mileage, lodging, and per diem costs may apply.
Includes 20 student contact hours and 1 hour teacher planning session. Explore one topic in-depth or group several topics.
Programs
Animals Have Class
Learn the differences between vertebrates and invertebrates and study animal classes such as mammals, reptiles, amphibians, fish and birds. In this interactive program, students compare classes with help from animal representatives. The option to focus on a single class of animals is also available.
Class Program Only
Art in the Environment
The natural world holds unlimited artistic opportunities, and this program inspires students to unlock the artist within as they learn about and create landscape and wildlife art using a wide variety of found and natural materials.
Class Program Only
Backyard Critters
Explore the wonders of backyard ecology and find out who is hiding right under your nose. In this live animal program, students learn tips for observing local wildlife and creating healthy habitats for both common and not-so-common creatures.
Buffalo Skulls and Beaver Tails
Learn about a variety of Minnesota animals, as well as the history of the beaver, buffalo and the diverse landscape of our great state. The program features an interactive slideshow, stories, and hands-on exploration of skulls, bones and pelts.
Bug Classifications
This programs transforms even adamant bug-haters into budding entomologists. Working in small groups, students handle mayflies, caddis flies and other insects as they sort, classify and learn about the wonders of ecology and Minnesota waterways.
Environmental Storytelling
Imaginative, participatory programs, built from dramatic storytelling and music played on invented instruments, like the bubble trumpet or French shoe horn, saved from the trash. Concepts include composting, gardening, recycling, walking and biking, wetlands, pollution and more.
Move Like the Animals
Hop like a rabbit, slither like a snake, or jump like a frog with this live animal program. Students will observe a variety of animals to see how movement helps them to catch their food, escape from predators and live healthy lives in their environment.
Class Program Only
Nature Photography
Working with an experienced photographer, students discover some of the exciting techniques for nature photography. View slides and go into the field to practice observing nature. Become acquainted with photo equipment and learn methods for taking photographs in the wild. Camera equipment is not essential.
Class Program Only
Prairies
Meet some of the interesting species that call the prairie home and get acquainted with foliage native to prairie lands. Learn about prairie “weeds” and their importance as well as the distinction between grasslands and prairies. Also, explore the role prairies have played in Minnesota’s past and present.
Raptors
This program features an owl and a hawk and the hands-on opportunity to learn about the similarities and differences of various native raptors. Students will learn about the unique characteristics of raptors as well as the special adaptations of birds of prey.
Reptiles and Amphibians
Touch a live reptile, amphibian and mammal to learn about different body coverings for various classes of animals and why they look and feel the way they do. Discover how body covering helps protect animals from danger and what special features enable an animal to live in its habitat.
Class Program Only
Survival Strategies
Get up close and personal with a hibernator, a migrator, and a “stay-putter” as you discover some of the special adaptations animals have that help them to catch food, escape from predators and stay safe, healthy and warm when the winter comes.
Class Program Only
Booking
To book a presentation or for more information contact Jeni.
