K-12 Outdoor Programs
Our field programs are aligned to DOE standards, STEM-based, and just plain fun! We focus on providing students with hands-on, positive outdoor experiences in their own backyards. Our field programs feature locations across Kosciusko County and are a memorable learning experience for your students.
Stream Sampling
Students become citizen scientists as they participate in our stream sampling program. Dive into water quality and aquatic ecosystems through a hands-on experience in a local stream. We will focus on collecting aquatic macroinvertebrates - and learn what they tell us about water quality.
Older students (in grades 5-12) will also explore chemistry by conducting tests to assess water quality metrics such as dissolved oxygen, pH, nitrates, and phosphates.
Grade level(s): K-12
Duration: 2-3 hours depending on number of students
Locations: Cherry Creek, Eagle Creek, Yellow Creek, or a creek of your choice!
Exploring Soils
NEW for 2024-2025! Exploring Soils is an introduction for 2nd graders to soil science. Soil is an essential part of life on Earth. Both agricultural and natural systems in Indiana are reliant upon healthy soils to thrive.
In this program, we explore the topics of soil texture, colors, biology, and erosion through hands-on activities at a local farm. Students will get their hands dirty looking for soil macrofauna, running erosion simulations, and will go home with an understanding of the value of healthy soils, as well as how to protect them!
Grade level: 2nd grade
Duration: 2 hours
Location: Clay Township School House
Pike Lake Wetland
Wetlands are fascinating and important ecosystems, and we have access to one right in the heart of Warsaw! Wetlands provide habitat for wildlife, flood protection, water quality improvement, and more.
Students will trek down the Beyer Boardwalk Trail through the Pike Lake Wetland to learn about the ecological services wetlands provide, how wetland soils are special, and the wildlife that call wetlands “home”.
Grade level: 3rd grade
Duration: 2 hours
Location: Pike Lake Wetland/Beyer Boardwalk
Wildwood
Wildwood is a hidden gem of Kosciusko County, encompassing over 250 acres of forests, wetlands, and prairies. Our Wildwood field trip focuses on the plants and habitats found here.
Students will hike the trails, study seeds to learn about dispersal, go birdwatching, and practice some math skills while aging trees.
Wildwood, managed by ACRES Land Trust, is a state dedicated nature preserve.
Grade level: 4th grade
Duration: 2 hours
Location: Wildwood Nature Preserve
Pisgah Marsh
The northern part of Kosciusko County is home to the Tri-County Fish and Wildlife Area, which has been set aside by the Indiana DNR to preserve habitat for plants and animals alike. Pisgah Marsh is an easily accessible part of the property which features a boardwalk along the edge of the marsh.
Students will learn about the geology, soils, plants, and wildlife of the marsh - sandhill crane sightings are likely! Other exciting things that students will see and learn about on this field trip include beaver dams and a glacial deposition called an esker.
Grade level: 5th grade
Duration: 2 hours
Location: Pisgah Marsh Boardwalk
Grassy Creek Rafting
The Grassy Creek Raft Journey provides students with the opportunity to experience local ecosystems from the water! Students board rafts and paddle the waters of Grassy Creek and Lake Tippecanoe to learn about how water and land are connected.
This program is an all-day excursion on the water. Come prepared to get wet! This program has a fee of $5 per person and a requirement to provide one adult chaperone (or school staff) for every 6-8 students. We’ll supply the raft guides!
At this time rafting is only available to STEM-certified schools. If your school is interested in future rafting opportunities, please reach out to let us know of your interest.
Grade level: 6th grade
Duration: 4-5 hours
Location: Grassy Creek
Tippecanoe River Rafting
As a partner in the Arrow Head Country Resource Conservation and Development Council, Kosciusko County offers a river expedition at Tippecanoe River State Park for high school students.
Students board rafts and paddle down the Tippecanoe River to learn about plant and animal species, water quality, pollution, forestry, land use, and conservation practices.
This program is an all-day excursion on the water. Come prepared to get wet! This program has a fee of $10 per person.
Please reach out to amanda.heltzel@in.nacdnet.net for information on how to schedule.
Grade level(s): 9-12
Duration: 6 hours
Location: Tippecanoe River State Park