The trail guide helps them make observations at a level appropriate for the students. Older groups explore life cycles, food webs, and the water cycle. Seasonalchanges and relationships are important concepts. Farmcraft Students take part in activities common on farms of the early twentieth century. Visitors shell corn, grind flour, bake in an outdoor oven, make cider, learnabout gardens and food preservation, and tend animals.
Discussion focuses on winter adaptations, food storage, and methods of food packaging.
A hayrideand short nature hike complete the program. This program provides an introduction to the species of trees and flowering plants found at Merry Lea. Special emphasis is placed on the spring wildflowers and the prairie community. Environmental Education for Teachers Educ 510 or Biol 510 Offered in June. This is a graduate course in environmental education for area teachers.