Can't make it to our existing programs? Let us bring nature to you! Our Nature in Session program brings outdoor education experiences to your doorstep. Each program runs 30 minutes to 1 hour per session and includes up to 30 people. Programs must occur within Dane County.
To request a program or ask a question, email heritagecenter@danecounty.gov, indicate your preferred dates, time, group size, age range of participants and program topic. Requests are subject to staff availability and are on a first come, first served basis.
Animal Adaptations (Pre-K and up)
This is an animal meet and greet opportunity! Staff will bring 2 of our ambassador animals to your location to explore the concept of adaptations. Staff will discuss with the group what an adaptation is and then the group will work on identifying the different adaptations the animals have to survive.
Stormwater Exploration (1st – 8th grade)
During this experience, staff will dive into a collection of activities to teach students about stormwater, the impacts too much stormwater runoff can have on our lakes, rivers and streams, and actions we can take to reduce stormwater pollution. Communities that are part of Madison Area Municipal Stormwater Partnership (MAMSWaP) may be eligible for subsidized programming. Contact heritagecenter@danecounty.gov to see if you qualify for subsidized fees. Limited funding available.
Team Building (3rd and up)
Need a chance to work better together? This program will lead your group through various challenges to practice their communication, leadership, trust and more.
CSI: Critter Scene Investigation (3rd – 8th)
Use your crime scene investigation skills in this animal identification program to discover the wildlife in Wisconsin. Learn how to investigate clues to determine what types of wildlife have been visiting our area and how they are surviving You may even find a new favorite animal during this interactive program!
Urban Tree Inventory (4th – 8th grade)
Trees provide an essential opportunity for life. Learn how to identify trees and their importance. During the program, participants will participate in developing a tree inventory for their site and report ecological information about their site’s trees.
Learn to Grow Native Plants Workshop (High School and up)
Native plants have tremendous water quality benefits and increase habitat and food sources for pollinators. Learning to grow your own plants can help reduce the cost of adding native plants to your yard and is a fun way to learn more about the plants. This workshop will include an indoor talk that provides an overview of how to grow native plants and some hands-on examples of winter sowing seeds and transplanting seedlings. Participants will be given materials to start one species of plants. Program available October – January.
Rainfall Simulator (High School and up)
A rainfall simulator is a unique educational tool that demonstrates what happens when rain falls on different surfaces such as farm fields, pastures, and native plantings. The rainfall simulator illustrates how different land management practices impact water quality. The Department has a total of three rainfall simulators; two table top simulators and one trailer. One tabletop simulator is set up to display more urban surfaces and land management practices. The second tabletop simulator and the trailer are set up to display more agricultural surfaces and land management practices. Based on staff availability, the rainfall simulators are available for educational events. This engaging educational tool provides audiences a glimpse into how different conservation practices can protect water quality and reduce erosion.
Backyard Birding (Adult)
Join us for an overview of traits you can use to identify birds in your own backyard. This interactive presentation will review the basics of birding and then teach participants how to use binoculars while practicing bird identification outside of your location.
Presentation: Finding Awe in Dane County Parks (Adult)
Dane County Parks provide moments of awe and wonder with sweeping natural landscapes, wildlife, native plants, and water resources. Join Dane County Parks photographer, Sevie Kenyon, on a photographic adventure through the 18,000+ acre park system! This presentation will take you on a deep dive into the magical moments that make our parks so special. Kenyon will share stories and images to inspire you to explore the stunning landscapes, hidden gems, and iconic locations of our parks. These eye-opening insider tips will help you find your awe right here in Dane County.
Composting 101 (Adult)
Want to start using your fruit and veggie scraps to enrich your soil? During this presentation, participants will learn the value of compost as a soil amendment, the do’s and don’ts of backyard composting as well as basic tools to aid in the process.
Have a great idea that relates to our mission? Reach out to us about developing a customized program for your group.
