Home Page - Outdoor Discovery Center

Calendar of Events

	July 2020
Sun	Mon	Tue	Wed	Thu	Fri	Sat
			1 Wild About Critters - Session 2 (at ODC) Wild About Critters - Session 2 (at ODC) July 1, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm This camp is for your little ones who are wild about animals! From turtles and frogs, to birds and fish, we will go on daily explorations with tools in hand to help us uncover what animals live here. Registration Required Ages: 4-6 yrs old Location: Outdoor Discovery Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Nature CSI - Session 1 (at DeGraaf) Nature CSI - Session 1 (at DeGraaf) July 1, 2020 @ 9:15 am - 11:45 am Does your camper think they have what it takes to uncover clues and get to the bottom of daily nature mysteries? In this camp we will study the evidence and gain a deeper understanding of nature in order to solve mysteries. This camp will get camper’s hands dirty, bodies moving, and inspire curiosity about how the natural world works. Registration Required Ages: 7-9 yrs old Location: DeGraaf Nature Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Introduction to Archery - Session 2 (at ODC) Introduction to Archery - Session 2 (at ODC) July 1, 2020 @ 9:30 am - 12:00 pm In this three-day camp, campers will be coached by certified archery instructors to establish or reinforce good techniques and form. Even if your child has never shot before, this camp will help them learn the lifelong sport of archery. They will experience using a variety of tools from ancient atlatls to modern compound bows at the ODC’s archery range. All materials will be provided for the camp. Sorry, no bows from home may be used until inspected by our range officer. Registration Required Introduction to Archery (Session 2) \| June 30- July 2 Location: Outdoor Discovery Center Fee: $80 Non-Members, 25% off for Members • • •	2 Wild About Critters - Session 2 (at ODC) Wild About Critters - Session 2 (at ODC) July 2, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm This camp is for your little ones who are wild about animals! From turtles and frogs, to birds and fish, we will go on daily explorations with tools in hand to help us uncover what animals live here. Registration Required Ages: 4-6 yrs old Location: Outdoor Discovery Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Nature CSI - Session 1 (at DeGraaf) Nature CSI - Session 1 (at DeGraaf) July 2, 2020 @ 9:15 am - 11:45 am Does your camper think they have what it takes to uncover clues and get to the bottom of daily nature mysteries? In this camp we will study the evidence and gain a deeper understanding of nature in order to solve mysteries. This camp will get camper’s hands dirty, bodies moving, and inspire curiosity about how the natural world works. Registration Required Ages: 7-9 yrs old Location: DeGraaf Nature Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Introduction to Archery - Session 2 (at ODC) Introduction to Archery - Session 2 (at ODC) July 2, 2020 @ 9:30 am - 12:00 pm In this three-day camp, campers will be coached by certified archery instructors to establish or reinforce good techniques and form. Even if your child has never shot before, this camp will help them learn the lifelong sport of archery. They will experience using a variety of tools from ancient atlatls to modern compound bows at the ODC’s archery range. All materials will be provided for the camp. Sorry, no bows from home may be used until inspected by our range officer. Registration Required Introduction to Archery (Session 2) \| June 30- July 2 Location: Outdoor Discovery Center Fee: $80 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Celebrate Eagles (at ODC) Celebrate Eagles (at ODC) July 2, 2020 @ 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm The big party is here, America's birthday party! To celebrate, the whole family is invited to meet our national symbol in the feather. You will be able to see our resident bald eagles and their cousin the golden eagle. Learn about what these awesome animals like to eat, where they live, and how strong they are. Plan on a 10 minute walk from the Main Entrance to the De Witt Birds of Prey Center. No registration necessary - seats are on a first come, first serve basis A health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Fee: $6 per person, $4 for members • • • •	3 Knee-high Naturalists (at ODC) Knee-high Naturalists (at ODC) July 3, 2020 @ 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Knee-high Naturalists introduces the wonders of the natural world to young children. Crafts, activities, books, snacks, live animals, and outside exploration will be incorporated into their nature-based learning experience. Parents are encouraged to attend with their 4 to 6 year old - though not required. Parents or guardians are asked to attend with their 3 year old to help with bathroom use and transitioning into a group learning environment. Registration Required and a health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Fee: $10 per child, $5 for members Banquet for the Birds (at ODC) Banquet for the Birds (at ODC) July 3, 2020 @ 11:00 am - 12:30 pm Stop by the De Witt Birds of Prey Center during this open house style program and watch a naturalist feed our resident raptors. You will learn about the habitats these birds live in, some of their amazing adaptations, and what they love to eat. You can bring a snack for yourself too! Plan on a 10 minute walk from the Main Entrance to the De Witt Birds of Prey Center. No registration necessary Fee: FREE • •	4 ODC Network Office and Visitor Centers Closed ODC Network Office and Visitor Centers Closed July 4, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 5:00 pm •
5	6 Critter Catchers (at ODC) Critter Catchers (at ODC) July 6, 2020 @ 11:00 am - 12:00 pm Our captive education animals are hungry! Learn what they like to eat then head out on the trails to catch their prey. Bring your catch back to the center and help a naturalist feed the reptiles and amphibians. Nets and other materials for capturing animals will be provided. No registration necessary A health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Fee: $6 per child, $4 for members •	7 Explore a Story (at DeGraaf) Explore a Story (at DeGraaf) July 7, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 10:00 am It’s time to round up the little ones and come out to the DeGraaf Nature Center for Explore a Story! We’ll be introducing kids to the outdoors through books and outdoor adventures. We’ll read stories, take hikes, meet animals, and have lots of fun. Dress for the weather because we’ll be heading outside to experience the nature around us! No registration necessary A health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Fee: $6 per child, $4 for members Yuckology - Session 1 (at ODC) Yuckology - Session 1 (at ODC) July 7, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Campers will explore some of the strange, gruesome, 'yucky' things animals do to survive. Throughout the week your little one will sift through the mud, dissect an owl pellet, and play a variety of games that teach them about why animals do the icky things they do. Registration Required Ages: 4-6 yrs old Location: Outdoor Discovery Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Kayak Camp - Session 2 (at various locations) Kayak Camp - Session 2 (at various locations) July 7, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm This three-day Kayak Camp is designed for your beginner paddler. Campers will learn to paddle these crafts solo and develop skills that emphasize independence and self-reliance. Campers learn skills through a mix of instruction, demonstrations, games, and trips. The instructors demonstrate and discuss paddle strokes and techniques, rescue skills, and boating safety. The opportunity to explore local waterways from ponds to rivers makes this an exciting camp your child will not want to miss. All materials provided though paddlers can bring their own paddle or vest. Registration Required Ages: 9-16 yrs old Location: Outdoor Discovery Center, other sites TBD Fee: $80 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Animals of DeGraaf Camp (at DeGraaf) Animals of DeGraaf Camp (at DeGraaf) July 7, 2020 @ 9:15 am - 11:45 am This camp is for kids who love animals and want to learn what it means to take care of those that call the DeGraaf Nature Center home. Campers will have the opportunity to help care for some of the animals at the DeGraaf by learning about the different animal’s habitat, food, enclosure, and enrichment needs. Registration Required Ages: 7-9 yrs old Location: DeGraaf Nature Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Archery Night (at ODC archery range) Archery Night (at ODC archery range) July 7, 2020 @ 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm Hey grown-ups, don't you want to shoot at a duck-billed dinosaur? Well then, come on out to the ODC for your chance to learn or hone your archery skills. We will provide all of the equipment. (Sorry, no outside bows.) This program is for 16 yrs old and up. We will be meeting at the archery range off of 142nd ave. Registration required A health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Fee: $12 per person, $9 for members Program Location: Meet at the ODC Archery Range - 5675 142nd Ave Holland, MI • • • • •	8 Yuckology - Session 1 (at ODC) Yuckology - Session 1 (at ODC) July 8, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Campers will explore some of the strange, gruesome, 'yucky' things animals do to survive. Throughout the week your little one will sift through the mud, dissect an owl pellet, and play a variety of games that teach them about why animals do the icky things they do. Registration Required Ages: 4-6 yrs old Location: Outdoor Discovery Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Kayak Camp - Session 2 (at various locations) Kayak Camp - Session 2 (at various locations) July 8, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm This three-day Kayak Camp is designed for your beginner paddler. Campers will learn to paddle these crafts solo and develop skills that emphasize independence and self-reliance. Campers learn skills through a mix of instruction, demonstrations, games, and trips. The instructors demonstrate and discuss paddle strokes and techniques, rescue skills, and boating safety. The opportunity to explore local waterways from ponds to rivers makes this an exciting camp your child will not want to miss. All materials provided though paddlers can bring their own paddle or vest. Registration Required Ages: 9-16 yrs old Location: Outdoor Discovery Center, other sites TBD Fee: $80 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Animals of DeGraaf Camp (at DeGraaf) Animals of DeGraaf Camp (at DeGraaf) July 8, 2020 @ 9:15 am - 11:45 am This camp is for kids who love animals and want to learn what it means to take care of those that call the DeGraaf Nature Center home. Campers will have the opportunity to help care for some of the animals at the DeGraaf by learning about the different animal’s habitat, food, enclosure, and enrichment needs. Registration Required Ages: 7-9 yrs old Location: DeGraaf Nature Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members • • •	9 Yuckology - Session 1 (at ODC) Yuckology - Session 1 (at ODC) July 9, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Campers will explore some of the strange, gruesome, 'yucky' things animals do to survive. Throughout the week your little one will sift through the mud, dissect an owl pellet, and play a variety of games that teach them about why animals do the icky things they do. Registration Required Ages: 4-6 yrs old Location: Outdoor Discovery Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Kayak Camp - Session 2 (at various locations) Kayak Camp - Session 2 (at various locations) July 9, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm This three-day Kayak Camp is designed for your beginner paddler. Campers will learn to paddle these crafts solo and develop skills that emphasize independence and self-reliance. Campers learn skills through a mix of instruction, demonstrations, games, and trips. The instructors demonstrate and discuss paddle strokes and techniques, rescue skills, and boating safety. The opportunity to explore local waterways from ponds to rivers makes this an exciting camp your child will not want to miss. All materials provided though paddlers can bring their own paddle or vest. Registration Required Ages: 9-16 yrs old Location: Outdoor Discovery Center, other sites TBD Fee: $80 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Animals of DeGraaf Camp (at DeGraaf) Animals of DeGraaf Camp (at DeGraaf) July 9, 2020 @ 9:15 am - 11:45 am This camp is for kids who love animals and want to learn what it means to take care of those that call the DeGraaf Nature Center home. Campers will have the opportunity to help care for some of the animals at the DeGraaf by learning about the different animal’s habitat, food, enclosure, and enrichment needs. Registration Required Ages: 7-9 yrs old Location: DeGraaf Nature Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members • • •	10 Knee-high Naturalists (at DeGraaf) Knee-high Naturalists (at DeGraaf) July 10, 2020 @ 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Knee-high Naturalists introduces the wonders of the natural world to young children. Crafts, activities, books, snacks, live animals, and outside exploration will be incorporated into their nature-based learning experience. Parents are encouraged to attend with their 4 to 6 year old - though not required. Parents or guardians are asked to attend with their 3 year old to help with bathroom use and transitioning into a group learning environment. Registration required A health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Fee: $10 per child, $5 for members •	11 Macatawa Water Festival Week Macatawa Water Festival Week July 11, 2020 - July 17, 2020 @ Macatawa Water Festival Week of July 11-17, 2020 We are excited to celebrate the Macatawa Watershed with a week-long, virtual-style event and encourage you to continue to visit, explore, and care for the watershed. Fourteen local businesses are joining in the fun by providing activities for all ages that will be shared online. Stay tuned for more information or visit the Macatawa Water Festival Web Page. Sign up to make your own rain barrel here. Macatawa River Clean-up (at Dunton Park) Macatawa River Clean-up (at Dunton Park) July 11, 2020 @ 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Help clean Lake Macatawa. Depending on the group size, there may be a crew on the shores of the lake and another in kayaks in the lake. Anyone under 16 years old must be with an adult. All boats, paddles and life vests will be provided. Meet at the lower parking lot near the boat launch. Registration required A health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Fee: FREE Location - Dunton Park, 290 Howard Ave., Holland, MI VoLes Volunteer League (at Dunton Park) VoLes Volunteer League (at Dunton Park) July 11, 2020 @ 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Our Volunteer League (nicknamed "VoLes) is a service club for teens to experience what it takes to maintain a natural area and captive wildlife. This program is designed for 12 to 18 year olds who will work with ODC Network staff on a variety of indoor and outdoor tasks at the ODC and DeGraaf Nature Center. Past projects have included removing invasive species, cleaning up animal enclosures, and adding nature play features. It’s also a great way to earn those community service volunteer hours! VoLes club meetings are generally one Friday and one Saturday of each month; for a total of six meetings per session. Spring, Summer and Fall sessions are available, no prior experience or participation is required to sign up. There is no fee for this activity, however a signed photo/liability release form are required with registration. Registration required A health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Fee: FREE Schedule available at http://outdoordiscovery.org/voles/ Summer Session 2020 meetings: Friday June 12, 2-4 pm Friday June 26, 10am-12pm Saturday July 11, 10am-12pm (River Clean up) Friday July 24, 2:30-4:30pm Friday, August 7 2-4 pm Saturday August 22, 12-2 pm • • •
12 Macatawa Water Festival Week Macatawa Water Festival Week July 11, 2020 - July 17, 2020 @ Macatawa Water Festival Week of July 11-17, 2020 We are excited to celebrate the Macatawa Watershed with a week-long, virtual-style event and encourage you to continue to visit, explore, and care for the watershed. Fourteen local businesses are joining in the fun by providing activities for all ages that will be shared online. Stay tuned for more information or visit the Macatawa Water Festival Web Page. Sign up to make your own rain barrel here. •	13 Macatawa Water Festival Week Macatawa Water Festival Week July 11, 2020 - July 17, 2020 @ Macatawa Water Festival Week of July 11-17, 2020 We are excited to celebrate the Macatawa Watershed with a week-long, virtual-style event and encourage you to continue to visit, explore, and care for the watershed. Fourteen local businesses are joining in the fun by providing activities for all ages that will be shared online. Stay tuned for more information or visit the Macatawa Water Festival Web Page. Sign up to make your own rain barrel here. Wilderness Survival (at Keppel Forest Preserve) Wilderness Survival (at Keppel Forest Preserve) July 13, 2020 @ 9:30 am - 11:30 am Improve your outdoor skills while at this exciting day camp. Participants will learn how to make a shelter, read a map, build a fire, and more. This is a great drop off program for 9-14 year olds. Please do not bring your pocket knives, weapons or matches - we will provide all of the materials necessary. Please do bring a water bottle and a snack. There is no restroom available at this park. Registration required A health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Fee: FREE - program sponsor Park Township Program Location: Keppel Forest, 2117 Lakewood Blvd. Holland, MI 49424 • •	14 Macatawa Water Festival Week Macatawa Water Festival Week July 11, 2020 - July 17, 2020 @ Macatawa Water Festival Week of July 11-17, 2020 We are excited to celebrate the Macatawa Watershed with a week-long, virtual-style event and encourage you to continue to visit, explore, and care for the watershed. Fourteen local businesses are joining in the fun by providing activities for all ages that will be shared online. Stay tuned for more information or visit the Macatawa Water Festival Web Page. Sign up to make your own rain barrel here. Lights, Camera, Animals - Session 1 (at ODC) Lights, Camera, Animals - Session 1 (at ODC) July 14, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Star in your own Nature TV episode! Campers will channel famous TV personalities such as the Wild Kratts and Jeff Corwin as they work on episodes of “Lights, Camera, Animals”. Campers will put their wild knowledge to use in an entertaining and educational video. You will be sent a copy of the final cut to share with family and friends. All materials will be provided. Registration Required Ages: 8-12 yrs old Location: Outdoor Discovery Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Little Explorers - Session 2 (at DeGraaf) Little Explorers - Session 2 (at DeGraaf) July 14, 2020 @ 9:15 am - 11:45 am Does your little one like to play in mud? Would they like to be an explorer for the day? In this camp, we will do all that and more! We will spend our time outside listening to stories, creating crafts, hiking, and exploring different habitats. Registration Required Ages: 4-6 yrs old Location: DeGraaf Nature Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Intermediate Archery Camp (at ODC) Intermediate Archery Camp (at ODC) July 14, 2020 @ 9:30 am - 12:00 pm This camp is for participants who have attended a previous ODC Network archery camp or have been through lessons with one of our staff. The camp is designed to build on the skills learned in the Introduction to Archery Camp and improve the archer’s shooting proficiency at greater distances and improve distance judgement. All materials will be provided for the camp. Sorry, no bows from home may be used until inspected by our range officer. Registration Required Ages: 10-16 yrs old Location: Outdoor Discovery Center Fee: $80 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Women in Nature - Kayaking (at Hacklander Boat Launch) Women in Nature - Kayaking (at Hacklander Boat Launch) July 14, 2020 @ 6:00 pm - 7:30 pm Women in Nature is a program series designed to motivate women to be more healthy, active and passionate about the natural world surrounding them. This program will take place on the Kalamazoo River in Fennville. This river has little current and is ideal for an inexperienced or casual paddler. During these programs, women will get the opportunity to learn about river wildlife, our efforts to improve local watersheds, and enjoy a casual paddle with a naturalist. Registration required A health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Fee: $12 Program location: Hacklander Boat Launch, Wiley Rd. Fennville, MI • • • • •	15 Macatawa Water Festival Week Macatawa Water Festival Week July 11, 2020 - July 17, 2020 @ Macatawa Water Festival Week of July 11-17, 2020 We are excited to celebrate the Macatawa Watershed with a week-long, virtual-style event and encourage you to continue to visit, explore, and care for the watershed. Fourteen local businesses are joining in the fun by providing activities for all ages that will be shared online. Stay tuned for more information or visit the Macatawa Water Festival Web Page. Sign up to make your own rain barrel here. Lights, Camera, Animals - Session 1 (at ODC) Lights, Camera, Animals - Session 1 (at ODC) July 15, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Star in your own Nature TV episode! Campers will channel famous TV personalities such as the Wild Kratts and Jeff Corwin as they work on episodes of “Lights, Camera, Animals”. Campers will put their wild knowledge to use in an entertaining and educational video. You will be sent a copy of the final cut to share with family and friends. All materials will be provided. Registration Required Ages: 8-12 yrs old Location: Outdoor Discovery Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Little Explorers - Session 2 (at DeGraaf) Little Explorers - Session 2 (at DeGraaf) July 15, 2020 @ 9:15 am - 11:45 am Does your little one like to play in mud? Would they like to be an explorer for the day? In this camp, we will do all that and more! We will spend our time outside listening to stories, creating crafts, hiking, and exploring different habitats. Registration Required Ages: 4-6 yrs old Location: DeGraaf Nature Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Intermediate Archery Camp (at ODC) Intermediate Archery Camp (at ODC) July 15, 2020 @ 9:30 am - 12:00 pm This camp is for participants who have attended a previous ODC Network archery camp or have been through lessons with one of our staff. The camp is designed to build on the skills learned in the Introduction to Archery Camp and improve the archer’s shooting proficiency at greater distances and improve distance judgement. All materials will be provided for the camp. Sorry, no bows from home may be used until inspected by our range officer. Registration Required Ages: 10-16 yrs old Location: Outdoor Discovery Center Fee: $80 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Nature for Tykes - Flowers (at ODC) Nature for Tykes - Flowers (at ODC) July 15, 2020 @ 10:00 am - 11:00 am Bring out your little tykes to learn more about nature. In each program, you and your little tyke will have the opportunity to explore together. This summer we will be learning about turtles, flowers, and meadows! Please dress for the weather. Registration required A health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Fee: $6 per child, $4 for members • • • • •	16 Macatawa Water Festival Week Macatawa Water Festival Week July 11, 2020 - July 17, 2020 @ Macatawa Water Festival Week of July 11-17, 2020 We are excited to celebrate the Macatawa Watershed with a week-long, virtual-style event and encourage you to continue to visit, explore, and care for the watershed. Fourteen local businesses are joining in the fun by providing activities for all ages that will be shared online. Stay tuned for more information or visit the Macatawa Water Festival Web Page. Sign up to make your own rain barrel here. Lights, Camera, Animals - Session 1 (at ODC) Lights, Camera, Animals - Session 1 (at ODC) July 16, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Star in your own Nature TV episode! Campers will channel famous TV personalities such as the Wild Kratts and Jeff Corwin as they work on episodes of “Lights, Camera, Animals”. Campers will put their wild knowledge to use in an entertaining and educational video. You will be sent a copy of the final cut to share with family and friends. All materials will be provided. Registration Required Ages: 8-12 yrs old Location: Outdoor Discovery Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Little Explorers - Session 2 (at DeGraaf) Little Explorers - Session 2 (at DeGraaf) July 16, 2020 @ 9:15 am - 11:45 am Does your little one like to play in mud? Would they like to be an explorer for the day? In this camp, we will do all that and more! We will spend our time outside listening to stories, creating crafts, hiking, and exploring different habitats. Registration Required Ages: 4-6 yrs old Location: DeGraaf Nature Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Intermediate Archery Camp (at ODC) Intermediate Archery Camp (at ODC) July 16, 2020 @ 9:30 am - 12:00 pm This camp is for participants who have attended a previous ODC Network archery camp or have been through lessons with one of our staff. The camp is designed to build on the skills learned in the Introduction to Archery Camp and improve the archer’s shooting proficiency at greater distances and improve distance judgement. All materials will be provided for the camp. Sorry, no bows from home may be used until inspected by our range officer. Registration Required Ages: 10-16 yrs old Location: Outdoor Discovery Center Fee: $80 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Live Birds of Prey (at ODC) Live Birds of Prey (at ODC) July 16, 2020 @ 11:00 am - 12:00 pm What makes a bird of prey different from other birds? Using our collection of live birds, you will learn the life history of several species including hawks, owls and falcons. There will be a chance to get an up-close look at the birds and explore artifacts including skulls, wings, talons and feathers. Plan on a 10 minute walk from the Main Entrance to the De Witt Birds of Prey Center for this program. No registration necessary. Seats are on a first come, first serve basis. A health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Fee: $6 per person, $4 for members • • • • •	17 Macatawa Water Festival Week Macatawa Water Festival Week July 11, 2020 - July 17, 2020 @ Macatawa Water Festival Week of July 11-17, 2020 We are excited to celebrate the Macatawa Watershed with a week-long, virtual-style event and encourage you to continue to visit, explore, and care for the watershed. Fourteen local businesses are joining in the fun by providing activities for all ages that will be shared online. Stay tuned for more information or visit the Macatawa Water Festival Web Page. Sign up to make your own rain barrel here. Knee-high Naturalists (at ODC) Knee-high Naturalists (at ODC) July 17, 2020 @ 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Knee-high Naturalists introduces the wonders of the natural world to young children. Crafts, activities, books, snacks, live animals, and outside exploration will be incorporated into their nature-based learning experience. Parents are encouraged to attend with their 4 to 6 year old - though not required. Parents or guardians are asked to attend with their 3 year old to help with bathroom use and transitioning into a group learning environment. Registration Required A health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Fee: $10 per child, $5 for members Banquet for the Birds (at ODC) Banquet for the Birds (at ODC) July 17, 2020 @ 11:00 am - 12:30 pm Stop by the De Witt Birds of Prey Center during this open house style program and watch a naturalist feed our resident raptors. You will learn about the habitats these birds live in, some of their amazing adaptations, and what they love to eat. You can bring a snack for yourself too! Plan on a 10 minute walk from the Main Entrance to the De Witt Birds of Prey Center. No registration necessary Fee: FREE • • •	18
19	20 Nature Puppet Show (at ODC) Nature Puppet Show (at ODC) July 20, 2020 @ 9:30 am - 10:30 am You’re invited to join us for a puppet show! Let’s learn about wild animals and their habitat homes. After the show, stick around to meet some live Michigan animals up close. This program is ideal for children 3 to 5 years old. No registration necessary A health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Fee: $6 per child, $4 for members •	21 Peek into the Past Camp (at various locations) Peek into the Past Camp (at various locations) July 21, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Take a peek into Michigan's past with the ODC Network! We will explore artifacts and a recreated winter house of the Woodland Era Native Americans, try our hand at axe throwing and fire making with flint and steel like a 1700’s French Voyageur, and travel back to the 1800’s to explore a log cabin and discover how to work and play like a pioneer child. Kids will get hands-on with the past through the many activities and games planned. For one day, camp will be at DeGraaf Nature Center. Details will be shared before the first day of camp. Registration Required Ages: 8-12 yrs old Locations: Outdoor Discovery Center & DeGraaf Nature Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Wild About Critters - Session 3 (at DeGraaf) Wild About Critters - Session 3 (at DeGraaf) July 21, 2020 @ 9:15 am - 11:45 am This camp is for your little ones who are wild about animals! From turtles and frogs, to birds and fish, we will go on daily explorations with tools in hand to help us uncover what animals live here. Registration Required Ages: 4-6 yrs old Location: DeGraaf Nature Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Intermediate Kayaking Camp (at various locations) Intermediate Kayaking Camp (at various locations) July 21, 2020 @ 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Campers who have already been through an ODC Network kayaking camp or who have experience paddling will enjoy this next level of kayaking! This camp will have the group visiting three different area kayaking sites each day including the Macatawa and surrounding watersheds. Campers will solo paddle their boat all three days for 3-4 hours each day. This camp will meet at various launch sites. Details will be shared before the first day of camp. All materials provided though paddlers can bring their own paddle or vest. Registration Required Ages: 9-14 yrs old Location: Sites TBD Fee: $110 Non-Members, 25% off for Members • • •	22 Peek into the Past Camp (at various locations) Peek into the Past Camp (at various locations) July 22, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Take a peek into Michigan's past with the ODC Network! We will explore artifacts and a recreated winter house of the Woodland Era Native Americans, try our hand at axe throwing and fire making with flint and steel like a 1700’s French Voyageur, and travel back to the 1800’s to explore a log cabin and discover how to work and play like a pioneer child. Kids will get hands-on with the past through the many activities and games planned. For one day, camp will be at DeGraaf Nature Center. Details will be shared before the first day of camp. Registration Required Ages: 8-12 yrs old Locations: Outdoor Discovery Center & DeGraaf Nature Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Wild About Critters - Session 3 (at DeGraaf) Wild About Critters - Session 3 (at DeGraaf) July 22, 2020 @ 9:15 am - 11:45 am This camp is for your little ones who are wild about animals! From turtles and frogs, to birds and fish, we will go on daily explorations with tools in hand to help us uncover what animals live here. Registration Required Ages: 4-6 yrs old Location: DeGraaf Nature Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Intermediate Kayaking Camp (at various locations) Intermediate Kayaking Camp (at various locations) July 22, 2020 @ 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Campers who have already been through an ODC Network kayaking camp or who have experience paddling will enjoy this next level of kayaking! This camp will have the group visiting three different area kayaking sites each day including the Macatawa and surrounding watersheds. Campers will solo paddle their boat all three days for 3-4 hours each day. This camp will meet at various launch sites. Details will be shared before the first day of camp. All materials provided though paddlers can bring their own paddle or vest. Registration Required Ages: 9-14 yrs old Location: Sites TBD Fee: $110 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Up Close and Wild (at Littlejohn Lake County Park) Up Close and Wild (at Littlejohn Lake County Park) July 22, 2020 @ 11:00 am - 12:00 pm Learn about the reptiles, amphibians and birds that can be found in Michigan with a naturalist from the Outdoor Discovery Center. Live animals will be used in this family friendly presentation that is great for all ages. Time to handle some of the wildlife may be conducted during the program or at its conclusion depending on the size of the audience. No registration necessary A health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Fee: FREE - program sponsor Allegan County Parks and Recreation Program Location: Littlejohn Lake County Park, 3540 113th Ave. Allegan, MI • • • •	23 Peek into the Past Camp (at various locations) Peek into the Past Camp (at various locations) July 23, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Take a peek into Michigan's past with the ODC Network! We will explore artifacts and a recreated winter house of the Woodland Era Native Americans, try our hand at axe throwing and fire making with flint and steel like a 1700’s French Voyageur, and travel back to the 1800’s to explore a log cabin and discover how to work and play like a pioneer child. Kids will get hands-on with the past through the many activities and games planned. For one day, camp will be at DeGraaf Nature Center. Details will be shared before the first day of camp. Registration Required Ages: 8-12 yrs old Locations: Outdoor Discovery Center & DeGraaf Nature Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Wild About Critters - Session 3 (at DeGraaf) Wild About Critters - Session 3 (at DeGraaf) July 23, 2020 @ 9:15 am - 11:45 am This camp is for your little ones who are wild about animals! From turtles and frogs, to birds and fish, we will go on daily explorations with tools in hand to help us uncover what animals live here. Registration Required Ages: 4-6 yrs old Location: DeGraaf Nature Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Intermediate Kayaking Camp (at various locations) Intermediate Kayaking Camp (at various locations) July 23, 2020 @ 10:00 am - 2:00 pm Campers who have already been through an ODC Network kayaking camp or who have experience paddling will enjoy this next level of kayaking! This camp will have the group visiting three different area kayaking sites each day including the Macatawa and surrounding watersheds. Campers will solo paddle their boat all three days for 3-4 hours each day. This camp will meet at various launch sites. Details will be shared before the first day of camp. All materials provided though paddlers can bring their own paddle or vest. Registration Required Ages: 9-14 yrs old Location: Sites TBD Fee: $110 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Blueberry Fields Forever (at Huyser Farm Park) Blueberry Fields Forever (at Huyser Farm Park) July 23, 2020 @ 11:00 am - 12:00 pm Learn about blueberries and how they have become a West Michigan industry. Bring collection buckets to take home some free blueberries from the u-pick, organic blueberry patch! Sturdy shoes and insect repellent are encouraged. No registration necessary Fee: FREE - program sponsor Laketown Township A health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Program location - Huyser Farm Park, 4184 64th Street, Holland, MI Women in Nature - Dune Walk (at Shore Acres) Women in Nature - Dune Walk (at Shore Acres) July 23, 2020 @ 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm Women in Nature is a program series designed to motivate women to be more healthy, active and passionate about the natural world surrounding them. Get in your steps after work and hike some of Michigan’s beautiful dunes. Learn about the largest freshwater dune system in the world. Bring a friend along as we hike through the different dune zones to Lake Michigan and back. Registration required A health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Fee: $6 per person Program Location: Shore Acres Township Park, 6602 138th Ave., Holland, MI 49423 • • • • •	24 Knee-high Naturalists (at DeGraaf) Knee-high Naturalists (at DeGraaf) July 24, 2020 @ 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Knee-high Naturalists introduces the wonders of the natural world to young children. Crafts, activities, books, snacks, live animals, and outside exploration will be incorporated into their nature-based learning experience. Parents are encouraged to attend with their 4 to 6 year old - though not required. Parents or guardians are asked to attend with their 3 year old to help with bathroom use and transitioning into a group learning environment. Registration required A health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Fee: $10 per child, $5 for members VoLes Volunteer League (at ODC) VoLes Volunteer League (at ODC) July 24, 2020 @ 2:30 pm - 4:30 pm Our Volunteer League (nicknamed "VoLes) is a service club for teens to experience what it takes to maintain a natural area and captive wildlife. This program is designed for 12 to 18 year olds who will work with ODC Network staff on a variety of indoor and outdoor tasks at the ODC and DeGraaf Nature Center. Past projects have included removing invasive species, cleaning up animal enclosures, and adding nature play features. It’s also a great way to earn those community service volunteer hours! VoLes club meetings are generally one Friday and one Saturday of each month; for a total of six meetings per session. Spring, Summer and Fall sessions are available, no prior experience or participation is required to sign up. There is no fee for this activity, however a signed photo/liability release form are required with registration. Registration required A health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Fee: FREE Schedule available at http://outdoordiscovery.org/voles/ Summer Session 2020 meetings: Friday June 12, 2-4 pm Friday June 26, 10am-12pm Saturday July 11, 12-1:30pm (Waterfest at Windmill Island) Friday July 24, 2:30-4:30pm Friday, August 7 2-4 pm Saturday August 22, 12-2 pm • •	25
26	27	28 Lights, Camera, Animals - Session 2 (at ODC) Lights, Camera, Animals - Session 2 (at ODC) July 28, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Star in your own Nature TV episode! Campers will channel famous TV personalities such as the Wild Kratts and Jeff Corwin as they work on episodes of “Lights, Camera, Animals”. Campers will put their wild knowledge to use in an entertaining and educational video. You will be sent a copy of the final cut to share with family and friends. All materials will be provided. Registration Required Ages: 8-12 yrs old Location: Outdoor Discovery Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Outdoor Skills Camp (at various locations) Outdoor Skills Camp (at various locations) July 28, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Hone your outdoor skills at the ODC Nature Preserve and at other Holland area parks. While on daytime hikes, campers will learn to read a map, navigate, practice wilderness survival skills, build a fire and more! For two days, campers will need to be dropped off at an area park. Details will be shared before the first day of camp. All materials will be included for this camp. - This includes a take-home survival kit. No pocket knives, weapons or matches may be brought by participants. Registration Required Ages: 10-16 yrs old Location: Outdoor Discovery Center, other sites TBD Fee: $80 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Nature CSI - Session 2 (at DeGraaf) Nature CSI - Session 2 (at DeGraaf) July 28, 2020 @ 9:15 am - 11:45 am Does your camper think they have what it takes to uncover clues and get to the bottom of daily nature mysteries? In this camp we will study the evidence and gain a deeper understanding of nature in order to solve mysteries. This camp will get camper’s hands dirty, bodies moving, and inspire curiosity about how the natural world works. Registration Required Ages: 7-9 yrs old Location: DeGraaf Nature Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members • • •	29 Lights, Camera, Animals - Session 2 (at ODC) Lights, Camera, Animals - Session 2 (at ODC) July 29, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Star in your own Nature TV episode! Campers will channel famous TV personalities such as the Wild Kratts and Jeff Corwin as they work on episodes of “Lights, Camera, Animals”. Campers will put their wild knowledge to use in an entertaining and educational video. You will be sent a copy of the final cut to share with family and friends. All materials will be provided. Registration Required Ages: 8-12 yrs old Location: Outdoor Discovery Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Outdoor Skills Camp (at various locations) Outdoor Skills Camp (at various locations) July 29, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Hone your outdoor skills at the ODC Nature Preserve and at other Holland area parks. While on daytime hikes, campers will learn to read a map, navigate, practice wilderness survival skills, build a fire and more! For two days, campers will need to be dropped off at an area park. Details will be shared before the first day of camp. All materials will be included for this camp. - This includes a take-home survival kit. No pocket knives, weapons or matches may be brought by participants. Registration Required Ages: 10-16 yrs old Location: Outdoor Discovery Center, other sites TBD Fee: $80 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Nature CSI - Session 2 (at DeGraaf) Nature CSI - Session 2 (at DeGraaf) July 29, 2020 @ 9:15 am - 11:45 am Does your camper think they have what it takes to uncover clues and get to the bottom of daily nature mysteries? In this camp we will study the evidence and gain a deeper understanding of nature in order to solve mysteries. This camp will get camper’s hands dirty, bodies moving, and inspire curiosity about how the natural world works. Registration Required Ages: 7-9 yrs old Location: DeGraaf Nature Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members • • •	30 Lights, Camera, Animals - Session 2 (at ODC) Lights, Camera, Animals - Session 2 (at ODC) July 30, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Star in your own Nature TV episode! Campers will channel famous TV personalities such as the Wild Kratts and Jeff Corwin as they work on episodes of “Lights, Camera, Animals”. Campers will put their wild knowledge to use in an entertaining and educational video. You will be sent a copy of the final cut to share with family and friends. All materials will be provided. Registration Required Ages: 8-12 yrs old Location: Outdoor Discovery Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Outdoor Skills Camp (at various locations) Outdoor Skills Camp (at various locations) July 30, 2020 @ 9:00 am - 12:00 pm Hone your outdoor skills at the ODC Nature Preserve and at other Holland area parks. While on daytime hikes, campers will learn to read a map, navigate, practice wilderness survival skills, build a fire and more! For two days, campers will need to be dropped off at an area park. Details will be shared before the first day of camp. All materials will be included for this camp. - This includes a take-home survival kit. No pocket knives, weapons or matches may be brought by participants. Registration Required Ages: 10-16 yrs old Location: Outdoor Discovery Center, other sites TBD Fee: $80 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Nature CSI - Session 2 (at DeGraaf) Nature CSI - Session 2 (at DeGraaf) July 30, 2020 @ 9:15 am - 11:45 am Does your camper think they have what it takes to uncover clues and get to the bottom of daily nature mysteries? In this camp we will study the evidence and gain a deeper understanding of nature in order to solve mysteries. This camp will get camper’s hands dirty, bodies moving, and inspire curiosity about how the natural world works. Registration Required Ages: 7-9 yrs old Location: DeGraaf Nature Center Fee: $60 Non-Members, 25% off for Members Turtle Races! (at DeGraaf) Turtle Races! (at DeGraaf) July 30, 2020 @ 12:00 pm - 1:00 pm Come one, come all to the great turtle race! Meet the competitors and learn a little bit about some of our native turtles. Pick your favorite one and root for it during the race. They might end shell and shell with each other. Come out to see the excitement! No registration necessary A health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Fee: $6 per child, $4 for members • • • •	31 Knee-high Naturalists (at ODC) Knee-high Naturalists (at ODC) July 31, 2020 @ 10:00 am - 12:00 pm Knee-high Naturalists introduces the wonders of the natural world to young children. Crafts, activities, books, snacks, live animals, and outside exploration will be incorporated into their nature-based learning experience. Parents are encouraged to attend with their 4 to 6 year old - though not required. Parents or guardians are asked to attend with their 3 year old to help with bathroom use and transitioning into a group learning environment. Registration Required A health screening form will be required to be filled out before participating in the program. Fee: $10 per child, $5 for members •

Newsletters

Support the ODC Network

Opening and Updates

All ODC Visitors Center is open from 11-3pm, Tuesday through Saturday. Our trails remain open from sunrise to sunset.

Community programs will resume the week of June 15 while the first summer camps will start the week of June 21.

The ODC Network is working to provide as safe of an environment as possible by providing hand washing/sanitizing materials during programs, encouraging physical distancing during programs, and having staff wear face coverings when they are in close proximity to program participants. If you plan on attending a community program with the ODC Network please note the following:

We will provide hand sanitizer or hand washing stations for programs
Attendees over the age of 6 must wear a face covering while indoors.
Please practice physical distancing to the best of your ability during the program.
Extra sanitization protocols will be in place before, during, and after the programs.
All participants will be required to fill out a health screening program when arriving at the program. You can see a preview of the form here – 2020 Community Programs Health Screening

Look for outdoor family activities in our Backyard Series or explore with the Parks Passport!

Macatawa Water Festival

This year’s Macatawa Water Festival has been moved to a week-long, virtual-style event. We are excited to still celebrate the Macatawa Watershed and educate and encourage you to continue to visit, explore and care for it.

From July 11 through July 18, 2020, fourteen local businesses are joining in the fun by providing activities, suitable for all ages, that will be shared on social media and on the Macatawa Water Festival webpage.