Nature center gives students chance to see outdoors
The mysteries of Logan are solved with fun and games in a cottage nestled in the rocks and trees of Logan Canyon. Constellations can be found, bat caves explored, and fossils are frequently examined at the Stokes Nature Center.
“[The Stokes Nature Center] is a great way to learn about the valley around us,” said Megan Barker, school programs director.
Utah State University students can get involved by becoming members, volunteering or attending the community programs.
Lisa Moore, community programs director, said membership for a student is $15. Members get discounts on the community programs, as well as a newsletter that comes out quarterly.
The SNC is looking for volunteers to teach, pass out fliers, and assist with programs, Barker said.
Most volunteers from USU are faculty members, with the exception of Amanda Keig, a sophomore majoring in environmental studies. Barker said the SNC would like to have more students on their staff.
“We definitely encourage students to volunteer,” said Michelle Baker, program assistant.
Those interested can find an application at the nature center.
The community programs are held almost weekly, Baker said.
A few programs triggered toward groups of all ages include:
– Sept. 5 at 7:30 p.m. Stargazing and dessert. Bring a flashlight, binoculars, and a blanket.
– Sept. 13 at 6 p.m. bat biologists will teach, and take a group to a bat habitat. Cost is $5.
– Sept. 27 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Hiking, caving, and education about rocks in Logan. Bring a snack, lunch, water, and warm clothes. Cost is $7.
– Oct. 11 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Crafts, hay ride, and nature games. Free to public.
– Oct. 25 from 9 to 10 a.m. Education about coyotes by USU professor Eric Gese.
All programs require pre-registration. The SNC’s phone number is 755-3239, or students can sign up at their location, about a quarter mile past First Dam in Logan Canyon.
The cabin where the SNC operates was funded by Allen Stokes, a former professor at USU, Moore said. He supported the SNC mission, which is “to provide opportunities for students of all ages to explore, learn about, and develop appreciation and stewardship for our natural world.”
More information can be found at SNC’s new Web site www.logannature.org.
-lroylance@cc.usu.edu