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Kent County Parks Department Partners with Blandford Nature Center to Offer Nature-Based Programming
GRAND RAPIDS, MI. (May 5, 2025) — The Kent County Parks Department is proud to announce a partnership with Blandford Nature Center to launch Nature Neighbors—a series of low-cost, nature-based programs designed for all ages. Hosted at several county parks throughout the spring and summer season, Nature Neighbors offers a wide variety of educational experiences aimed at helping residents connect with the environment, each other, and the natural world around them.
“We built the Nature Neighbors series to be engaging for people of all ages and backgrounds and appreciate the start-up funds contributed by a collaborative group of private donors to bring this vision to life,” said Izzy Saylor, Off-Site Programs Manager at Blandford Nature Center. “We want participants to leave with a deeper connection to their environment and a renewed sense of community inspired by nature.”
Here are just a few of the fun, interactive programs offered through Nature Neighbors:
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Bumblebee Nature Walk (ages 2-6): Hands-on nature exploration walks guided by a Blandford educator. Kids get exploration backpacks to use during the program. Monthly themes keep it fresh.
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Sensory Experience (ages 2-6): Engage your senses on a guided nature walk—touch, smell, listen, and look. Includes a take-home sensory activity.
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Scientists in Training (ages 5-12): Mini science experiments and free play designed to spark curiosity in young learners.
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Discovering Owls (ages 5-12): Learn where owls live and what they eat through hands-on exploration, including owl pellet dissection.
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Sustainable Futures (ages 12-15): Explore sustainability by building eco-friendly landscapes using natural resources. Includes Leave No Trace practices and collaborative problem-solving.
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Introduction to Birding (adult): A relaxed birdwatching hike for beginners, with tips, resources, and optional binoculars provided.
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Nature Journaling (adult): Outdoor creative writing time focused on nature-based poetry and storytelling. Participants are welcome to bring folding chairs.
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Paint in the Park (seniors): A relaxed painting session in the park to connect with others while enjoying the scenery. Art supplies and tea provided.
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Sowing Seeds (all ages): Learn to start a garden and plant your own vegetable starters to take home. Great for families and individuals alike.
“Nature Neighbors shows what’s possible when we work together to enrich our public spaces,” said Ben Swayze, Kent County Parks Department Director. “Through this growing partnership with Blandford Nature Center and the generosity of donors who believe everyone should be able to connect with nature, we’re bringing new energy to our parks—transforming them into spaces that educate, inspire, and unite people of all ages.”
The first event kicks off Tuesday, May 6 at Wabasis Lake Park. For more information on program dates, times, and registration details, please visit the Nature Neighbors website.
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