- Trails are open 24/7 at no charge. Enjoy a Winnie-the-Pooh themed TRAIL TALES Storybook Walk.
What’s Happening: Environmental Deep Dive
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, July 10 at 1:00 pm. 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 Nature Treks with Terrie events and the bat survey. To sign up or learn more, visit the Crossroads website. Family programs and hikes do not require registration and remain free of charge, thanks to our generous donors.
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!
– by Coggin Heeringa, Interpretive Naturalist
For more information, please check out our Crossroads calendar or stop by the Collins Learning Center and pick up a printed calendar. Our trails are open all day every day, free of charge, thanks to donors like you!
Crossroads at Big Creek Learning Center and Nature Preserve is located at 2041 Michigan Street, Sturgeon Bay. Crossroads is a 501(c)3 organization committed to inspiring stewardship of the environment through education, research, and outdoor experiences. We welcome your support.
Upcoming Activities
