Rice Creek Field Station brings plenty of life to our campus and community with a number of nature education programs for all ages. In addition to our programming, the Field Station is open to view our natural history displays, featured artwork and to learn about the research conducted on-site.
COVID-19 Update: All face-to-face public events at Rice Creek Field Station have been suspended until further notice, to help promote public health during the coronavirus disease pandemic.
Upcoming Events
Ongoing Programs
See our calendar for all event and program dates. Many ongoing programs are currently on pause per campus directives (updated 9/15/2020).
Rice Creek Ramble
Saturdays, 11am
Free and open to the public
45-minute naturalist-led walks start at the main building. We welcome groups, however, if your group is larger than 8 or for a specific event, please call for special arrangements. An adult needs to accompany children under age 17.
Exploring Nature
Registration required
Exploring Nature is a week-long, educational day program designed to encourage young people's curiosity and concern about their world. Participants ages 5-16 explore and investigate life around Rice Creek while discovering nature first hand through nature walks, activities and games. Learn More and Register
Rice Creek Associates Reflections Presentations
Free and open to the public
These monthly talks, hosted by the Rice Creek Associates, present on a variety topics related to local ecology and environmental themes of interest to the community.
Story Hour
Saturdays, 11am
Free and open to the public
Join us as we share tales of nature, animals' wild ways, and how we relate to our world around us. These programs are designed for elementary-aged children, though all are welcome. An adult must accompany children under 17.
Winter Bird Study
Saturdays, 9am - 3pm
Free and open to the public
Drop by most Saturdays November through March and spend a few minutes with our feathered friends. Be a citizen scientist as you survey the birds at the Rice Creek feeders from our indoor viewing area. No experience is needed. This is a great project for all ages and the entire family.
Nature Ed Newsletter
Free and open to the public
We want to help you and your family get engaged in nature. Through this monthly newsletter, you'll receive mini lessons and fun activities around a particular nature theme. We provide resources for exploring the theme through the lens of literature, science, art, and more. Pick and choose the resources that work for your family, and start learning and exploring! You'll also have the option to connect with other Nature Ed families through a private Facebook group.