We believe the future lives outdoors
Getting outside changes everything. At ODC Network, we’re building a nature-rich community, one where people and nature thrive. That starts by making it easier for people to spend time outside, whether that’s exploring local trails, enrolling in programs, or connecting through nature-based learning.
This page is your starting point. Find simple ways to get outside, get involved, and be part of what we’re building together.
What's New
Stories, ideas, and inspiration to help you spend more time outside.
How We’re Tracking Lake Macatawa’s Water Quality in Real Time
Introducing ODC Network’s water quality monitoring buoy.
How We’re Restoring Lake Macatawa—and Protecting Its Future
ODC Network leads the effort to protect the Macatawa Watershed.
Plan Your Visit to the Cultural History Center
Whether it’s your first visit or your tenth, there’s always something new to discover.
Get Outside
Start small. Attend a community program, walk a local trail, or spend more time outside with your family.
Or go further. Bring outdoor learning to your school, redesign your yard with native plants, travel the world on a conservation expedition, or partner with us to restore land at your home or workplace.
We’re building a nature-rich community together, inch by inch, acre by acre.
Unplugged: Disconnect to Reconnect
Resources from our Speaker series
We’re setting down screens and stepping outside. This spring, thousands joined us for a speaker series tackling the negative effects of screen time—and the restoration and repair time outdoors can bring. Join us in turning a moment into a community movement.
Events and Programs for everyone
Events
Calendar of Events
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1 event,
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Dates: Class is every Monday, August 17-September 28, from 9-11 am (Excluding September 7, which is Labor Day)Ages: 18 years or older.Cost: $60 per participant - Scholarships are available, if financial assistance is […] |
1 event,
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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 […] |
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1 event,
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Volunteer with the Allegan Conservation District for the opportunity to help remove autumn olive, an invasive shrub threatening our local ecosystems. During this program, you’ll learn to identify autumn olive, […] |
3 events,
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Join us for a morning birding hike around a local birding hotspot! Walk with one of our naturalists who will guide you through the trails. Our naturalist will help you […]
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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 […]
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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 […] |
2 events,
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Hike the trails of Cooper-Van Wieren as we search for some incredible insects. Join a naturalist as we venture through the park with sweep nets, uncovering the hidden lives of […] |
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1 event,
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Bring your little tykes out to discover the wonders of nature! Each program is a hands-on experience that will spark curiosity and create unforgettable memories for both you and your […] |
1 event,
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Volunteer with the Allegan Conservation District for the opportunity to help remove autumn olive, an invasive shrub threatening our local ecosystems. During this program, you’ll learn to identify autumn olive, […] |
2 events,
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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 […]
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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 […] |
2 events,
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EARLY BIRD PADDLE @ Reeds LakeA morning on the water with birds, kayaks, and community!Start your Saturday with fresh air and bird songs! Join ODC Network, Cultivate the Community, and […]
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Fall is the perfect season to dive into the incredible world of insects! Join a naturalist as we venture through the park with sweep nets, uncovering the hidden lives of […] |
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2 events,
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Dates: Class is every Monday, August 17-September 28, from 9-11 am (Excluding September 7, which is Labor Day)Ages: 18 years or older.Cost: $60 per participant - Scholarships are available, if financial assistance is […]
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Plants and their seeds need to grow. Seeds spread using a variety of methods so they do not compete with their parent plant. Students will discover the many different ways […] |
3 events,
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It’s time to round up the little ones and come out to the Outdoor Discovery Center for Explore a Story! We’ll be introducing kids to the outdoors through books and […]
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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 […]
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Ever wondered what sets a bird of prey apart from other birds? Now’s your chance to discover the secrets of these incredible hunters! Join us as we get to know […] |
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1 event,
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Women in Nature is a program series designed to motivate women to be more healthy, active and passionate about the natural world surrounding them. Walk the trails of Bysterveld Park […] |
2 events,
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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 […]
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Women in Nature is a program series designed to motivate women to be more healthy, active and passionate about the natural world surrounding them.Step into the woods after dark for […] |
2 events,
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The Holland BPW is hosting a fall native plant sale! On Saturday, September 19, anyone can come learn how native plants benefit our community, then purchase them for their own yard! […]
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Gwénbeshké (Turning Over a New Leaf) Celebration. Join us as we celebrate the care, creativity, and community effort that brought the ODC Network's Cultural History Center to life. This special […] |
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1 event,
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Dates: Class is every Monday, August 17-September 28, from 9-11 am (Excluding September 7, which is Labor Day)Ages: 18 years or older.Cost: $60 per participant - Scholarships are available, if financial assistance is […] |
1 event,
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Fall is the perfect season to dive into the incredible world of insects! Join a naturalist as we venture through the Upper Macatawa Natural Area with sweep nets, uncovering the […] |
2 events,
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Held at Diamond Springs Golf Course, located in Hamilton, this is an event to bring people together, network, and generate revenue for ODC’s mission! During this unique scramble-style event, golfers […]
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Held at Diamond Springs Golf Course, located in Hamilton, this is an event to bring people together, network, and generate revenue for ODC’s mission! During this unique scramble-style event, golfers […] |
2 events,
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Join us for an hour-long guided walk as we explore the fascinating world of fungi right here in Michigan. We’ll stroll through the area looking for mushrooms and other fungi […]
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Looking for a space to enjoy nature with your family? Join us at Paw Paw Park East for a night of strolling and rolling along the Macatawa River Greenway! Whether […] |
1 event,
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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 […] |
4 events,
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Don't forget to bring your Park Passport when you head to Rabbit River Preserve! You'll get a stamp at this delightful free open house event, which counts as an extra […]
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September 26th VoLes volunteers will assist with the Lake Macatawa Clean-Up at Howard B. Dunton Park. Our Volunteer League (nicknamed "VoLes") is a service club for teens to experience what […]
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The DeGraaf nature Center will be closed so our team can be at the rescheudled Macatawa Water Festival at Kollen Park. Stop by and see us there! |
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1 event,
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Dates: Class is every Monday, August 17-September 28, from 9-11 am (Excluding September 7, which is Labor Day)Ages: 18 years or older.Cost: $60 per participant - Scholarships are available, if financial assistance is […] |
0 events,
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0 events,
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0 events,
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2 events,
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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 […]
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Step into the woods after dark for a thrilling night-time adventure! As we walk under the stars, you'll use your senses to discover how much you can feel, hear, touch, […] |
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