Teachers

Indian Creek Nature Center’s professional staff and trained volunteer teacher-naturalists provide environmental education programs for over 17,000 students each year. Our learning experiences are hands-on opportunities for children and adults to connect with nature in a unique, outdoor classroom.

Silos & Smokestacks Bus Grant Available!

Silos & Smokestacks National Heritage Area (SSNHA) is pleased to announce that $10,000 is available  to help schools in Northeast Iowa fund field study trips during the 2011-2012 school year. The Bus Grant Program, which helps cover transportation costs of school field study trips to designated SSNHA Partner Sites, allows students the opportunity to learn about and connect with Iowa’s agricultural heritage.

Awarded on a first-received, first-funded basis, accredited Pre K-12 public, private or charter schools located within the 37-county Heritage Area may apply for one grant per year with a maximum of $350 awarded per school. The grant cycle begins August 1 and will remain open until funds are depleted or December 1, 2011, whichever comes first.  Download an application

Preschool Programs

Creekside Critters programs take preschoolers on a learning adventure indoors and outdoors with a naturalist. more details

Elementary and Middle School Programs

Field trips bring learning to life as students use their observation skills and senses in nature to discover and explore. Indian Creek Nature Center offers a variety of programs and trail experiences for students of all ages. Our naturalists will facilitate hands-on activities with students as they explore the trails and habitats of the Nature Center grounds.

Nature Center field trip programs fulfill national standards and benchmarks and enhance traditional classroom lessons. All programs are age-appropriate and allow for a small student-to-naturalist ratio.  Many areas are wheelchair accessible, so please call if special arrangements are needed. The Nature Center staff  can design a custom environmental education experience to compliment your curriculum. Some programs can also be taken into the classroom or done in a natural area at your facility. more details

All programs have a minimum $40 program fee. This fee also includes free admission to exhibits and use of picnic areas. Our calendar fills quickly so call early to reserve your date.

Summer Group Programs

Learning doesn’t stop in the summer! In fact, the Nature Center is brimming with insect and animal activity!  Schedule a program or trail adventure during June, July or August.  We offer a variety of experiences for all ages.  program details

Cost is $3 per child (no charge for adult chaperones). All programs have a minimum $30 program fee. This fee also includes free admission to exhibits.  Our calendar fills quickly so call early to reserve your date. Please inform us if you plan to lunch or snack at the Nature Center. Picnic tables are available.

Cancellation policy

The Nature Center requires a 24-hour advance notice for cancellations. You will be billed for the minimum program fee if you fail to cancel and do not arrive for your program. Only in cases of extreme weather will the Nature Center cancel a scheduled program. All programs we cancel will receive a full refund.

All programs can be scheduled by calling the Nature Center at 362-0664 during business hours.

Nature Center programming information for parents who are home-schooling their children can be found under the PARENTS tab at left.