At Crossroads, we are committed to restoring stable, diverse ecosystems that support native plants and wildlife. That involves soil conservation. This work is especially vital here in Door County. Our thin, fragile soils, shaped by a unique geological history, are particularly vulnerable to erosion and contamination.
During this week’s Nature Trek with Terrie, participants will take a “Journey through Time” and will learn that soil is a non-renewable resource—or more accurately, that it takes hundreds, sometimes thousands, of years to make an inch of topsoil. And yet, scientists tell us that without fertile topsoil, our food supply, clean water, biodiversity, and even the global climate would be in jeopardy.
Consequently, protecting our shallow soil from erosion and contamination is essential to our restoration efforts.
This August, we offer Environmental Exploration, family-friendly outdoor experiences, at 1:00 several times each week [Environmental Exploration will resume on Tuesdays at 3:30 during the school year.]
On Monday, August 11, the topic is Erosion, and participants of all ages will learn about soil loss and what we are doing to mitigate erosion near Big Creek and to reduce the amount of fertile soil going into the Bay of Sturgeon Bay, and beyond.
On Tuesday, August 12, Environmental Exploration will be a "Make-and-Take" activity featuring animal tracks. This will be followed by a hike to the creek bed to find and identify animal tracks.
Our weekly naturalist-led Wandering Wednesday Hike will follow the Big Creek riparian shoreline to observe evidence of erosion.
On Thursday, hikers aged 16 and older will dive deep into geologic history as part of our Nature Trek program. This program requires registration, but like our other programs this week, it is free.
Our programs are usually free, our trails are open all day, every day without charge, and we can conserve our soil and restore our ecosystems due to the generosity of our donors. And perhaps, if you bring children and grandchildren to our educational family programs, you can encourage young people to be “coming-of-age donors.” Together, we can build a legacy of generosity and environmental stewardship involving the next generations.
Monday, August 11
1:00 pm Environmental Exploration – Erosion
Geared for elementary-aged students, but open to learners of all ages, this program will focus on the value of soil, look for examples of erosion, and learn what we are doing to reduce soil loss in the preserve. Dress for the weather. Registration is not required. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads at Big Creek, 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay
Tuesday, August 12
1:00 pm Environmental Exploration – Animal Tracks
This “make and take” lesson is geared for elementary students. But all are welcome to attend to learn about animal tracks and see how they help us learn about wildlife. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads at Big Creek, 2041 Michigan, Sturgeon Bay
Wednesday, August 13
1:30 pm Wandering Wednesday
This naturalist-led hike will follow the riparian corridor of Big Creek to observe evidence of erosion and our restoration efforts in action. Free and open to the public. Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads at Big Creek, 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay
Thursday, August 14
1:00 Nature Treks with Terrie – A Journey Through Time
Participants aged 16 and older will take a trip back through time to discover the unique plants, animals, and human inhabitants that once called this place home. Free but reservations required. Visit the Crossroads website for details and to register.Meet at the Collins Learning Center, Crossroads at Big Creek, 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay
