In addition to its popular family programs, youth camps, and nature hikes, Crossroads at Big Creek is excited to introduce a new summer series: Nature Treks with Terrie! This engaging program invites the community to "Take a Deep Dive into Environmental Topics” with award winning environmentalist Terrie Cooper.
The inaugural trek, "Aquatic Adventures", will take place on Thursday, August 10 at 1:00 Participants will enjoy a hands-on exploration of Big Creek, wading into the water in search of macroinvertebrates—small, spineless creatures like insects, snails, and crayfish that can be seen without a microscope.
While fun and fascinating, this activity has important scientific value. Biodiversity of macroinvertebrates is a strong indicator of stream health. Some species are extremely sensitive to pollution, while others can tolerate even the harshest conditions. By documenting the variety and abundance of these organisms now and in the future, Crossroads can evaluate the success of ongoing habitat restoration efforts.
Unlike expensive chemical water tests, which offer a brief snapshot in time, the presence of sensitive species can signal long-term stream health.
Last spring, during an afterschool program called Sunrise Explorers, 5th-grade students participated in a similar exploration and discovered a diverse collection of species—some of which are known to be intolerant of pollution. A promising sign!
While free, reservations are recommended for Trekking with Terrie events and the bat survey. To sign up or learn more, visit the Crossroads website. Thanks to our generous donors, family programs and hikes do not require registration and remain free of charge.
While the Collins Learning Center will be closed over the Independence Day holiday, Crossroads’ trails remain open 24/7, free of charge. Enjoy a safe and happy holiday outdoors!
Wednesday, July 3
5 :15 AM Bird Survey at Ida Bay Preserve
Join our ongoing effort to document bird species as part of our ecological restoration work. We'll follow Breeding Bird Atlas protocols. Bring weather-appropriate gear and download the Merlin Bird ID app in advance. Meet at the parking lot at 1195 Canal Rd., Sturgeon Bay,
Monday, July 7
1:00 PM Journeys with Joan: Fantastic Flyers
Discover the wonders of animal migration with naturalist Joan Wilkie in our fields and woodlands. All ages welcome. No registration needed. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan, Sturgeon Bay
Tuesday, July 8
1:00 PM Journeys with Joan: Finding Fossils
Unearth ancient stories as we explore fossilized remains from the prehistoric sea that once covered Door County. This family-friendly event is free of charge and is held at the Meer at the Collins Learning Cetner, 2041 Michigan, Sturgeon Bay.
8:30 PM – Nighttime Bat Hike
Join us at Ida Bay Preserve after dark to look and listen for local bats.
Headlight provided. Free, but registration is encouraged. For more information and to sign up, visit the Crossroads website, Events. Meet at: 1195 Canal Rd, Sturgeon Bay
Wednesday, July 9
1:00 PM – Journeys with Joan: Rocks & Caves
Explore the unique geology of Door County in this family-friendly program. Free and open to all ages. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads, 2041 Michigan, Sturgeon Bay
1:30 PM – Wandering Wednesday
Join a naturalist-led hike through the Big Creek Preserve. Free and open to all ages. Easy walking, about one hour. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay
Thursday, July 10
1:00 Nature Trek with Terrie: Aquatic Adventures
Take a deep dive (or shallow wade!) into the world of aquatic invertebrates with Terrie Cooper. Learn about water quality, fish habitats, and macroinvertebrate identification. Registration recommended. Visit the Crossroads website https://crossroadsatbigcreek.org/event/nature-treks-with-terrie-aquatic-adventure/ for more information and to sign up.
