Getting Kids Outdoors - Connected and Engaged in Our Natural Resources

The Idaho Department of Fish and Game's MK Nature Center and the USFS RMRS Boise Aquatic Sciences Lab have been working as partners since 2008 to get more kids outside and connected with nature. The primary educational activity we collaborate on, “Class in the Creek”, is suitable for audiences of all ages, although most of the Nature Center clientele is in the K-12 bracket. This one activity embodies the features supported by research to effectively connect children with their natural environment and leave a lasting impression. Namely, this activity approximates “unstructured play in the outdoors” (Louv 2006 and others) that is instrumental in creating physically, mentally, and emotionally healthy children. Beyond that, this and other hands-on, outdoor experiences we facilitate, help to instill the sense of stewardship that is essential to responsible resource use and management.

The Boise River is our most valuable teaching tool for this activity. The river enables us to turn a dry, ordinary classroom science lesson into a learning experience that includes discovery, excitement, awe, and wonder; the ingredients necessary to create a lasting impact. The river, with all of its treasures, allows us to light the fire in kids that then drives their own education; in the process we talk about aquatic ecology, watersheds, communities, human impacts and whatever the kids choose to discuss. Class in the Creek does include a classroom session and a walk through the Nature Center to tie things together and focus on key concepts, but the “play” in the river far and away the most stimulating, effective, and essential piece of the educational initiative.

 The Nature Center is a 4.6 acre mini-watershed; the 550 foot stream that winds through the center of the facility is the heart and soul of the place. The stream and the native habitat are home to many species of native fish, wildlife and plants. Together, the MK Nature Center grounds and visitor center comprise a valuable education facility and a key wildlife watching destination for Boise residents and visitors. MK Nature Center staff, along with partners and volunteers, provide education programs for about 15,000 students, teachers and parents annually. In addition, the MKNC provides customer service for about 150,000 “walk on” visitors each year.