| Program |
Months Offered |
Program Description |
| Animal Tracking |
December-March |
This class is an introduction to the animals that are active in winter. Differences in the shape and measurements of tracks left in the snow provide the focus for this fascinating winter adventure. |
| Animal Signs |
Year Round |
Students will learn about the basic classes of animals that can be observed at the Nature Center including mammals, birds, insects, reptiles, and amphibians. Evidence of animal presence in the form of homes, browse, tracks, scat, feathers, and runways are found by hiking and exploring the trails |
| Exploration Hike |
Year Round |
This program provides the opportunity to explore the prairies, wetlands, and woodlands using the Nature Center’s field packs. Students and staff work together as detectives of nature and search for any, and all, wonders of the natural world for observation and discussion. |
| Insects |
July-September |
This introductory class on common insects features a hike in the fields and prairie for specimen collection and order identification. Nets and bug boxes are provided. Monarch butterflies may be tagged as part of the Monarch Watch Program. All animals will be released at the conclusion of the program. |
| Maple Syruping |
March |
Tree biology, Native American culture, and maple syruping technology are special features of this unique program. Outside, students will observe a tree tapping demonstration, collect sap (if possible), learn about the process of turning sap into syrup, and sample the final product. Wear gear appropriate for snowy or muddy trails. |
| Orienteering |
Year Round |
While GPS technology is gaining popularity, the necessity to catch a signal and the limit on battery power restricts their usefulness in wilderness areas. A good compass is a wise addition to any survival kit. Participants will learn how to use a compass to find bearings and navigate through a series of directions. |
| Owl Pellets |
Year Round |
Students will explore the unique physiology and natural history of owls native to Wisconsin. Through the dissection of sterilized owl pellets, participants will experience hands-on learning by comparing the bone structures of owls and their prey to humans. |
| Pond Exploration |
April-September |
The water cycle, the importance of water, and the many types of wetland habitats found in Wisconsin are introduced in this class. Collection, observation, identification, and study of aquatic plants and animals is integral. Supplies provided. |
| Reptiles and Amphibians |
May-September |
Learn the unique characteristics that separate the classes of animals collectively referred to as herptiles. Discover similarities and differences in reptiles and amphibians while getting an up close look at live animals. Visitors will view reptiles and amphibians in the classroom and search for frogs, turtles, and snakes in their natural habitats when seasonally appropriate. |
| Seeds and Soils |
September-October |
In this class, students will get the “scoop” on soils. Students will learn soil components and take samples of Nature Center soils. As we hike the trails, we will look for wild seeds and discuss different methods of dispersal and requirements for germination. |
| Sense and Nonsense |
Year Round |
Sound mapping, exploring night vision, tasting dandelions, touching or smelling unknown objects… participants use their five senses to discover and explore the world around them. Specific sensory activities will depend upon the season this program is scheduled. |
| Snowshoe Adaptations |
December-February |
This unique class introduces participants to plant and animal adaptations necessary for winter survival. After a discussion on the history and types of snowshoes, the class will venture out on a snowshoe hike to observe the evidence of winter-active animals. |
| Snowshoe Skills |
December - February |
Learn to move on snowshoes as we walk, turn, run, and step over obstacles in this skills-based program. Participants will spend the entire program time outdoors. |
| Trees |
May-October |
This program offers an introduction to trees, giving students the opportunity to learn about structure, leaf shapes, and basic life requirements. A hike emphasizing the uses, differences, and beauty of common native trees concludes the program. |
| Web of Life |
April-October |
Food chains are the focus of this program as students explore the woodlands, wetlands and prairie habitats of the Brillion Nature Center. Participants will identify the key components of each habitat type and look for evidence of food chain links. |
| Wetlands and Water Cycles |
April-September |
Discover the significance of wetlands as we use a groundwater model to demonstrate how water makes its way from its source to our taps. Then we will go outside to explore life in the pond and the importance of keeping our wetlands healthy. |
| Wild Edible Plants |
April-June |
Learn the Do’s and Don’ts of gathering and eating wild plants. From cattail shoots to violet flowers, we’ll taste our way along the nature center trails and then work together to make and taste Dandelion Fritters and Swamp Soup back in the classroom. |
| Wilderness Survival |
Year Round |
This activity-packed program focuses on plant, animal, and human wilderness survival. Activities include shelter and fire building techniques that provide practical experience and illustrate ecological concepts. |