Inspiring future generations to care for the natural world is our mission. Encouraging students to become engaged, well-rounded members of society is yours.
Together, we can make our community a great place to live, work, learn and play.
Fontenelle Forest offers a wide variety of nature-based educational programs.
With over 1,500 acres of land and 17 miles of maintained trails, Fontenelle Forest provides the perfect setting for outdoor activities that will engage and inspire students of all ages. Our dedicated Naturalist Educators are ready to help your students learn about the natural world through our interactive education programs, specifically designed to align with the latest Nebraska State Science Standards.
PRESCHOOL AND KINDERGARTEN (1.5 HOURS)
Explore the Forest from top to bottom while learning how different animals and plants relate to one another! Discuss how seasons initiate changes to plants in the Forest, how animals react to changing weather, and identify the role that seasons play in the life cycles of living things. (Includes 20 minutes of free play in our outdoor natural playscape, Acorn Acres.)
KINDERGARTEN AND 1ST GRADE (1 HOUR)
How does a snake swallow its food? Can an owl find its prey in the snow? Learn about the wide variety of native wildlife you can find at Fontenelle Forest and throughout Nebraska. We will investigate these amazing animals and the adaptations that help them survive in their environment. This program will feature close encounters with live animal ambassadors.
1ST GRADE (1.5 HOURS)
Let’s learn about mimicry! Discover how parents teach their offspring about the world and observe examples of animals that utilize mimicry to survive (either in appearance or behavior). Listen to a variety of natural sounds to understand the unique ways that animals communicate with each other.
2ND GRADE (1.5 HOURS)
How do plants grow? Why are they important? Why are there so many different kinds? This program is designed to answer these questions and many more! Identify different plant species that make their home in the Forest, see how they spread their seeds, and learn about the integral role that plants play in our world.
2ND AND 3RD GRADES (2 HOURS)
Let’s investigate habitats! We will define what a “habitat” is and collect evidence that links animals to specific habitats. Students make observations about the area where a plant or animal lives, consider why they live there, and theorize what may happen when habitats are disturbed.
4TH AND 5TH GRADES (1 HOUR)
What do mice, voles, shrews, snakes and birds all have in common? They might end up as dinner for an owl! From plumicorns to nictitating membranes to pectinate claws, explore the amazing adaptations that help these predators survive. Optional Add-on: Owl pellet dissection can be included for a small fee.
3RD AND 4TH GRADES (2 HOURS)
Discover the difference between physical and behavioral adaptations! Learn how plants and animals have adapted to thrive in their unique ecosystems. Through hands-on games and demonstrations, students will gain a deeper understanding of what skills and tools are needed to survive in nature.
4TH GRADE (2 HOURS)
Learn the different ways that wind, water and ice transform the land. Identify specific land features and rocks that tell the story of historical landscape changes within the Forest. Discuss the difference between erosion and deposition, and take a hike to discover real-time examples of these forces.
*This program is available as “On-the-Go” programs held at your location. Inquire for details & pricing.
$7.75 per student • Teacher/Adult free up to 1:10 ratio
$11 per additional adult
5TH GRADE (2 HOURS)
In a never-ending cycle, energy is constantly transferring from one thing to another in our universe. Through observing the plants and animals we encounter, students will trace the flow of energy through the Forest and discover the mighty influence of the Sun on our environment.
5TH GRADE (2 HOURS)
Identify natural resources found in the Forest and consider how those resources can be transformed. Review natural resources that are particularly important to Nebraska’s success. Race your mind in our recycling relay, and discover surprising facts about what you throw away.
6TH, 7TH AND 8TH GRADES (2 HOURS)
Observe adaptations in plants and animals and discern whether they are physical or behavioral. Consider how inherted traits and environmental adaptations are key to an individual’s probability to reproduce. Learn how natural selection affects the animal and plant world.
Spending time in nature has been shown to:
• positively affect mental health and improve memory
• reduce stress and mental fatigue
• encourage exploration and inquiry
Additionally, engaging in outdoor group activities:
• creates space for students to observe and practice positive social skills
• strengthens interpersonal relationships
• provides a physical and mental break from the usual classroom setting
• results in better academic and behavioral performance after their trip
“I have been a teacher for 30 years and Fontenelle Forest is my favorite field trip. Forest staff are organized, well-trained and very knowledgeable. A guide meets you at the bus and takes over - your job is done! Your students will leave talking about all they have learned!”
• Bring your own lunch & enjoy a picnic on the plaza! Outdoor seating is first-come, first-served.
• Explore the Riverview Boardwalk, hike the trails, visit the Raptor Woodland Refuge, Acorn Acres* or Habitat Hollow during your visit (daily admission is included in program pricing)
