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Park District offers Ecology 101 nature class for adults

Posted on: September 5, 2017

By request, Ecology 101 for adults was added to the Glen Ellyn Park District’s lineup of educational classes. This special session brings the “invisible” flora and fauna to the forefront, and discusses the relationship between plants and animals in the region, focusing on how they rely on each other and work together to coexist successfully. “I’ve had a lot of success with adult ecology classes that I occasionally teach at the Morton Arboretum,” said Renae Frigo, Naturalist with the Glen Ellyn Park District. “Those are typically in a series format, and can be more difficult for participants to fit into their busy schedules. This is a one-time class that may be easier for adults to enjoy.”

On Saturday, September 23, join instructor Renae Frigo for this interesting and informative class. The adventure takes place at Churchill Park, located at 271 St. Charles Road, from 9:00 am – 11:00 am.  Participants should meet in the main parking lot.  The class is open to ages 18 and over, with a cost of $10 for residents and $15 for non-residents. To date, only 12 openings in the class remain. Standard and internet registration are currently available.

“I’m excited to offer this hands-on nature class for adults,” said Frigo. “It will be a fun morning, full of exploring and learning the basics of ecology. We’ll have a variety of activities that showcase “unnoticed” plant and animal life that are common to our area.” The class will indeed be hands-on; participants will be in the field, getting dirty and looking for a variety of specimens, so dressing for the weather is a must. Shoes will get muddy, so plan accordingly. Nets and buckets will be used to collect aquatic life, and sweep nets will be provided for use in the field. “It’s fun being outside, physically touching and smelling things. It sticks with you more,” added Frigo.

Frigo will also provide participants with additional resources for continued learning and exploration. “I’ll offer a handout that lists the best local places for bio-diversity,” she said. “There are very nice trails with a variety of lengths that offer opportunities to continue exploring the natural areas in our region.”

To register for Ecology 101, please click here.