Ecology Explorers 101

Grades 3-5 / Cost: $10 per student / Limit 30 students

In this hands-on class, students will become nature scientists as they explore the importance of water and wildlife in our environment. Using microscopes, they’ll discover tiny life forms hidden in water, see firsthand how pollution affects ecosystems through exciting demonstrations, and examine real animal pelts and skulls to learn about local wildlife. To top off the adventure, students will even have the chance to meet and hold live turtles!

Ecology Explorers 201

Grades 6-8 / Cost: $10 per student / Limit 30 students

Take your exploration of ecology to the next level! In this hands-on class, students will investigate the role of wetlands and other green design strategies in keeping our environment healthy. Using microscopes, they’ll uncover tiny life forms in water and analyze how wetlands naturally filter pollutants. Students will also explore innovative green design features—such as constructed wetlands, permeable pavers, and other sustainable solutions—that help protect water quality and support ecosystems.

Ecology Explorers 301

Grades 9-12 / Cost: $10 per student / Limit 30 students

Explore the science behind healthy ecosystems in this advanced ecology course! Students will investigate the nitrogen cycle and its crucial role in water quality, use microscopes to examine microscopic life in aquatic systems, and analyze how wetlands function as natural filters. They’ll also dive into green design strategies, exploring sustainable solutions like constructed wetlands and other eco-friendly technologies that support environmental health. In addition, students will see best management practices in action and learn about career paths in environmental science, conservation, and sustainable design.

Forestry

Grades 6-12 / Cost: $15 per student / Limit 30 students

Dive into the exciting world of forestry in this hands-on adventure! Students will step into the boots of a forester, using real tools and techniques to measure and map trees in a sample forestry plot. Get ready to explore, discover, and connect with the forest like never before!

Canoeing

Grades 6-12 / Cost: $20 per participant / Limit 60 participants

*Available April 15 -October 15*

Gear up for an unforgettable adventure on Flint Creek! Students will suit up with lifejackets and pair up in canoes for an exciting journey. The excursion kicks off with a safety lesson from our trained guides, where they’ll learn how to paddle and handle a canoe safely—even in the rare event of a capsize. As they paddle along the creek, students will encounter an array of wildlife: wading birds hunting along the shoreline, turtles lounging on sunlit logs, and maybe even a glimpse of a spotted gar gliding through the water!

Canoeing also includes your choice of Ecology OR Flint Creek Ecosystem class option.

Hiking

Grades 2-12 / Cost: $15 per participant / Limit 30 participants

Get ready for an exciting nature hike along the scenic Flint Creek! Students will climb over fallen logs, duck beneath low-hanging branches, and explore the wild as they make their way to an amazing finale: a real beaver dam! This thrilling adventure covers less than 2 miles and takes about an hour and a half—perfect for a fun-filled outdoor experience! Each hike is unique, with opportunities to discover fascinating finds along the way. Your guide will share insights about the natural world—perhaps you’ll spot an antler shed or encounter an interesting insect!

Wilderness Explorers

Grades Preschool-2nd / Cost: $5 per student / Limit 20 students

Even your youngest scholars will have a great time at WaterWorks! Learn about what animals live under the pond while sitting in front of a freshwater aquarium, then take a trip to the treehouse to see and hear what happens in the busy tree during story time. Feeling a little squirmy?  Let’s dig for worms and hold a variety of turtles!