Nature Club takes young explorers (6th-8th grade) into local habitats to learn about the amazing living world around us while making discoveries along the way. Across four excursions, youth will learn more about nature through observation and experience while developing a deeper connection to nature and their fellow club members. Programs are led by Museum staff with kids dropped off at rotating locations, including local parks and open spaces.
Cost: $100 non-members/ $80 members per session (4 programs per session)
*Scholarships are available upon request and funding availability
Registration Deadline: February 8, 2025
Registration & cancellation policies
Schedule:
Finding Fungus
Saturday, February 8th, 1:30-4:00 p.m.
Join us in exploring the wonderful world of fungi at Pogonip Open Space. Participants will learn about local species of fungi and how they are a part of the ecosystem.
Salamander Search
Saturday, March 1st, 1:30-4:00 p.m.
Learn about local salamander species through this program in DeLaveaga Park. Participants will learn how to identify salamanders, participate in a salamander population count, learn about salamander conservation, and engage in community science using iNaturalist.
Fossil Exploration
Saturday, April 5th, 10:30-12:00 p.m. (note: this program meets at a different time)
Participants adventure to The Hook to explore fossils during low tide. Learn about Purisima Formation fossils that can be found in the coastal bluffs and how different geologic formations represent very different environmental conditions in Santa Cruz and the Monterey Bay throughout history.
Wildflower Walk
Saturday, May 10th, 1:30-4:00 p.m.
Visit Moore Creek Preserve to learn about the myriad native flower and plant species in Santa Cruz and how people maintain landscapes using grazers. Participants learn how to identify wildflowers while learning about different practices for maintaining healthy open spaces.
What to Expect
The Museum does not provide transportation to offsite meeting spots, and participants should be dropped off and picked up by parents/guardians. Some programs may be physically rigorous. Please email education@santacruzmuseum.org if you have questions about trail accessibility. Programs occur rain or shine, barring extreme weather.