Even though it was a damp, rainy day, many good things happened at the Goose Lake Prairie State Natural Area for the visit of the Students from Tobin Elementary School. We started the day with an emphasis on Stewardship, introducing the members of the Park Staff and the Goose Lake Prairie Partners in attendance. From there the students were shown how to plant, although conditions did not allow them to do so... We broke for a snack, were introduced to Rosie, our resident Corn Snake and then divided the class into two groups. Each group had a chance to discuss the characteristics of many animals as well as join in a race of predictors. The second activity was a game called "What Are My Needs" and was in the parking lot. It is a simulation on native and non-native plants. After the game, they moved into the Butterfly Barn to eradicate Garlic Mustard. Finally, the day was over and the students brought their lunches inside the center. After lunch they each received a gift from the IDNR representative and then boarded their bus for the drive back to their school.
I know the Students, the Teachers, the Parents and the Prairie Partners all learned things today!