Chippewa Nature Center celebrates Earth Week with all-ages, hands-on fun

Misty Barron | Thursday, April 10, 2025

Volunteers needed for Wallen Park planting

The Chippewa Nature Center (CNC) is gearing up for Earth Week with a full schedule of interactive programs and guided outdoor experiences running April 22 to 27. From art workshops to tree care and citizen science, the week offers something for nature lovers of all ages.

Caring for Young Trees
On Tuesday, April 22, from 6 to 7 p.m., volunteers ages 9 and up are invited to help care for young trees in the Homestead Area. Tasks may include tree maintenance and, if conditions allow, planting new ones. Volunteers should dress for rugged, off-trail conditions and bring work gloves.

Mushroom-Inspired Printmaking
Wednesday, April 23, brings a creative twist with a mushroom-themed printmaking workshop from 6 to 8 p.m. at the Visitor Center. Local artists will guide participants in turning repurposed materials into one-of-a-kind tea towel prints.

Open to ages 15 and up, the workshop costs $25, or $20 for CNC members. Registration is required by April 17.

Explore Vernal Pools
On Thursday, April 24, from 6 to 7 p.m., community members can take part in a statewide citizen- science effort to survey one of the center’s seasonal ponds. These vernal pools serve as important habitats for amphibians and other wildlife. The event is open to all ages—just bring waterproof footwear.

Battling Invasive Plants
Learn how to spot and manage invasive species on Friday, April 25, from 6 to 7:30 p.m. Experts from the Central Michigan Cooperative Invasive Species Management Area will lead a program that includes plant identification, treatment demos, and a short hike. Ages 15 and up are welcome.

Geocaching Adventure
Earth Week wraps up on Sunday, April 27, with a geocaching challenge from 12:30 to 4 p.m. Stop by the Visitor Center to grab your GPS coordinates, then head out to find Earth Week-themed caches hidden across CNC’s trails. No prior geocaching experience needed.

For more information or to register for specific events, visit www.chippewanaturecenter.org or call 989-631-0830.

Read more articles by Misty Barron.

Misty Barron is a Mid-Michigan native who has proudly called Midland her home for the past six years. She served as Editor-in-Chief for the Delta Collegiate, where she earned various awards for her writing, including Journalist of the Year in 2023 from the Michigan Community College Press Association. In her free time, Misty enjoys spending time with family and friends and enjoying all our beautiful state has to offer.