Conference Schedule

Breakout Session 1 (choose one of the following)

1a. Nature-Engaged Families: A Research Overview
Presenters: Nate Meyer, UM Ext.; Sherry Boyce, Rebecca Meyer, Kathleen Olson, and Andrea Lorek Strauss (Co-authors)
Presentation will describe research that supports the importance of family involvement with nature, and how families learn and recreate in nature. It will introduce UMN Extension research on nature-engaged families and statewide programming to serve nature-engaged families.

1b. Getting in Touch with Nature: Using digital media technology to connect students to nature (for grades 5 -12)
Presenters: Joe Courneya and Steve Maanum
Digital photography serves as the entry point to help teachers/educators get students in the field. This session includes overview of Where’s Woody, Streaming Chicken, remote scouting cameras and ROV – remote operated vehicles. We will work hands- on with cameras and introduce participants tothe 4-hour trainings offered through “Digital Photography Bridge to Nature”.

1c. Walkable Communities: Explore your community and nature
Presenters: Sarah Reese and Guy Griebe, Northwest SHIP cluster; Troy Schroeder, Northwest Regional Development Commission
Walkable and bikeable communities accommodate all types of transportation, but focus on a safe and convenient environment for pedestrians and bicyclists. One way to support biking and walking in our community is to be an example- meaning for children and adults, alike, to walk or bike as often as possible. Bring your sneakers and take part in a short Walkable Community Audit. Learn about “Safe Routes to School”.

Breakout Session 2 (choose one of the following)

2a. Seasons of nature and family traditions
Presenters: Nathan Meyer, David Wilsey and Sherry Boyce, UM Extension
Interactive presentation on intentional program planning to involve families with nature. Participants will collaborate in building a programming calendar that gives attention to months [or moons] of the year, what is happening in nature, what are people doing in nature, what kinds of programming are available or need to be available.

2b. Eyes on Wildlife: Following Wolves from the Classroom
Presenter: Becky Rennicke, Perham School
Eyes on Wildlife focuses on providing authentic research opportunities to students by partnering with research organizations such as the MN Department of Natural Resources, US Fish and Wildlife Service, US Geological Survey and Moorhead State University. By providing a basic curriculum, teacher training, equipment and resources, this project is able to thrive and expand, and in the process benefits all of the players. This presentation will discuss how schools can start similar programs in their own community.

2c. Three Ways Back Into Nature: PWLC, PSC, and NatureWorks
Presenters: Matt Connor and David Ellis, USFWS
Are you looking for “a way back” into nature? Would finding ways to reconnect people, both children and adults, with nature be of use to you? Matthew Conner, director of Prairie Wetlands Learning Center and David Ellis, Instructional Systems Specialist are delighted to share with you three ways to invite people of all ages to reconnect with the natural world we live. In their presentation you will be introduced to the Prairie Wetlands Learning Center (PWLC), the Prairie Science Class (PSC), a 4th and 5th grade magnet science program for Fergus Falls Public Schools, and NatureWorks, a Bremer Foundation funded program, which reconnects teachers and students in four West Central Minnesota schools. Working for the USFWS Conner and Ellis are strong advocates for reconnecting Americans with nature.

Breakout Session 3 (choose one of the following)

3a. Sampler of nature-based learning materials and resources
Presenter: Laura Bell, UM Crookston
A hands-on introduction to curricula from Project Learning Tree, Project Wild, Project WET, and opportunities for further training.

3b. Making good use of environmental field days - preparation and reflection.
Presenter: Nate Meyer, UM Extension
Field Days can be an effective gateway for youth and families into outdoor sports, recreation, stewardship and healthy behaviors. This interactive workshop will explore design/delivery strategies to make the most of these events for youth and families.

3c. Engaging Your Community - getting started with the resources in your community
Presenters: Dan Svedarsky, John Loegering -UM Crookston; Cheryl Charles, Children and Nature Network, and Mary Vidas, Tamarack Nature Center
What are the resources that are already in your country or region that can help connect children and nature? Find human and financial resources that will create the momentum in your community.