With today’s emergent environmental concerns, it is imperative that our youth build connections to nature. A field trip to Fenner is an opportunity for your students to gain ecological understanding, reinforce materials presented in the classroom, and teach awareness about their own role in the world around them.
Can’t make it to Fenner? Not a problem. Let Fenner come to you with our educational outreach programs!
School Programs – $250
- 30 students maximum
- 90 minute program
- 1 adult per every 3 students, including teachers, classroom aids, and chaperones are permitted to join for no additional cost
- Admission for additional chaperones or non-participating siblings is $10.00/person
- Please call (517) 483-4245 or email programs@mynaturecenter.org for program options
Outreach Programs – $250
- 30 students maximum
- 60 minute program
- Programs can be taught indoors or outdoors at the school facility, depending on space and availability
- Programs include at least one Ambassador Animal
- Please call (517) 483-4245 or email programs@mynaturecenter.org for program options
Registration
To register, call (517) 483-4245 or email programs@mynaturecenter.org.
Fenner Nature Center programs are taught outdoors, rain or shine. So, please dress for the weather.
Cancellations
Registrations are non-refundable. We will work with you to reschedule any programs that must be cancelled due to weather conditions.
Scholarships
The Norris Ingells Education Fund for Youth
This scholarship enhances environmental awareness for children through nature and science-based learning experiences. If your group needs financial assistance with transportation or program fees, please contact our program manager at programs@mynaturecenter.org.
Norris Ingells Group Scholarship Application.
The Rose Zack Youth Birders Education Fund
This scholarship provides an opportunity for classrooms within Ingham, Eaton, Clinton, and Shiawassee counties to visit Fenner Nature Center for a nature-based learning experience centered around bird conservation and natural history. This scholarship is available on a first come, first served basis. Please call (517) 483-4245 or email programs@mynaturecenter.org for program options.
Rose Zack Youth Birders Education Fund Scholarship Application
Please return the completed form by mail or in person to the nature center, or by email to programs@mynaturecenter.org. You must register for a program prior to submitting the scholarship form.
Apple Butter Program (Fall Season)
Get into the fall vibes with our Apple Butter Program! Hike through our scenic trails to the historic apple orchards while exploring tree biology and grafting. Groups will dive into the apple butter-making process with hands-on activities like peeling and coring apples, tossing them into the kettle, and stirring with a paddle. Plus, everyone will enjoy a tasty sample of apple butter to savor the flavors of the season!
Maple Syrup Program (Winter & Spring)
Fenner has many school programs throughout the year, including our Maple Syrup Program in the winter and spring. With this interactive day, you’ll take a fun trip through the captivating world of maple syrup. As students walk the trails, they learn to identify trees and which kinds are suitable for tapping! Students get to see and learn about the tools used to boil and collect sap, try tapping trees on their own, and will sample syrup made from different trees. From the rustle of leaves beneath your feet to the excitement of trying something new for the first time, each stage of the sugaring season provides a learning opportunity. Click here to view more photos with descriptions.
Explore Store
We encourage you to visit our Explore Store after your program to pick up nature inspired gifts as well as tools, such as field guides, to extend the learning experience for your students back at school.