Photo Credit / Dagnija Tomsons
The Kalamazoo Nature Center (KNC) is a non-profit organization where people can learn about nature by walking through trails, reading books and pamphlets and being inspired to do good. On Dec. 12, 2015, there was a free-admission day for a Local Art and Gift Fair, where people were allowed to come in and enjoy the different local artisans that came to sell their goods.
“I really appreciate the Nature Center. It offers a great setting for hiking and opportunities to learn about God’s creation. They have been hosting a Christmas Craft show for about seven years now, and I have been in all but the first one. I participate in several shows per year and the one at the Nature Center is always the best for me. I love woodworking and God’s critters… and this allows me to have a part in both,” said James Collison, a sponsor for the Nature Center and a Loy Norrix grad from 1974.
After your visit to the fair on Dec. 12th, a nice way to end the day is to go for a walk on the trails behind the Center. The trails are nice, relaxing and a good activity for friends and family.
“I think the KNC is a peaceful place to visit. I enjoy going with my cousins, watch them run down the trails and see the the different animals – deer, owls, hawks, turtles, etc. The thing I like most about the KNC is when they have the butterfly exhibit in the Bug House,” said junior Kierra Grado.
Other events happening this year at the Nature Center are:
- March 5th-6th: From Sap to Syrup. Enjoy a hike through the woods to see how maple syrup is made.
- March 12th-13th: 51st Annual Maple Sugar Festival. Eat pancakes with maple syrup made at the Center’s Sugar Shack, go on a walk to the trails, horse-drawn wagon rides and an inclusive look into life in the 1800s.
- April 4th-8th: Spring Camp. Five day stay.
- April 19th: Everyone Outside Walk. Get outside to walk with KNC, Community Inclusive Recreation and Residential Opportunities, Inc.
- April 23rd: Earth Day Celebration. Earth Day 5k for anyone who loves to run/walk the trails and Raccoon Run for ages 8 and under. 25 dollar fee for the Earth Day 5k and 10 dollar fee for the Raccoon Run, both include a free shirt (i would so totally do this for a free shirt). Other activities include: craft tables, free trail hiking, Nature playground open, etc.
Greg Norrell • Feb 17, 2016 at 10:35 am
Looks like a nice nature center.