The Nature Academy - The Naturalist in Your Pocket

The Nature Academy is a program geared to teens and adults looking for an immersive experience in nature education, inspiration, and storytelling. Each meeting will be geared toward topics meant to provide a deeper, more meaningful connection with nature and provide ideas on how we can individually and through group practices be better stewards of our parks, local habitats, and ecosystem more broadly. Each program may include a variety of activities from nature hikes, lectures, or special guest presentations. Group participation will be encouraged.

Dec. 7 @ 6:30 PM – Owls of Indiana

Join Mark Booth from Take Flight Wildlife Education as he introduces a few owls native to Indiana. Discover their lifecycles, how they adapt to their environments, and learn about the conservation issues that impact their well-being.

Jan. 4 @ 6:30 PM – Don’t Be a Bonehead: Know Your Animal Skulls

Join Jackie Curt, a zoologist and park employee, as she shares her fascinating collection of animal skulls. By observing their features, you’ll learn to identify these skulls’ previous owners. You’ll also learn about the intriguing journey she goes through to find these skulls and the process to preserve them.

Feb. 1 @ 6:30 PM – Indiana Limestone: From Ocean to Skyscraper

Architect Todd Schnatzmeyer and Indiana Master Naturalist Josh Hill collaborate to give you an understanding of Indiana’s geology and how Indiana limestone earned the title “Nation’s Building Stone.”

Mar. 7 @ 6:30 PM – Introduction to Astronomy

Get an enticing tour of the cosmos with astronomy enthusiast Dr. Doug Balogh. Not only will you gain astronomical insights, but you also get a chance to learn how to make the most of your telescope. If the weather permits, you’ll get a chance to view the beautiful night sky.