Photo: Jessica Sahu Teli
It’s a sunny day in October and a throng of exuberant sixth graders is spread out along the St. Croix River shoreline, gathering water samples, searching for aquatic macroinvertebrates and filling the air with a joyous sound.
Since 2021, Carpenter Nature Center and the South Washington Watershed District have collaborated to provide watershed education for students at South Washington County Schools. Through this program, the kids participate in hands-on lessons at school and then enjoy a visit to the nature center, where they put their learning into practice.
Research shows that nature-based education promotes creativity and problem solving, improves academic performance, reduces ADHD symptoms, encourages physical activity, reduces stress, and improves social
relations and self-discipline. Carpenter Nature Center is one of several local nature centers that offer school and public programming.
Looking for family-friendly nature experiences this fall? Check out these destinations:
- Carpenter Nature Center in Hastings and Hudson, Wisconsin
- Belwin Conservancy in Afton
- Dodge Nature Center, Shepard Farm, in Cottage Grove
- Sally Manzara Nature Center in Lake Elmo
- Tamarack Nature Center in White Bear Lake
Angie Hong coordinates the East Metro Water Education Program. Find her on social media @mnnature_awesomeness.
