May 3, 2023

Chippewa Nature Center
Homestead Rd

May 1-Oct 15
Open dawn-to-dark

Chippewa Nature Center
Chippewa River Rd - .3 miles west of Meridian Rd (M-30)

May 1, Open dawn-9 pm
June-July, Open dawn-10 pm
Aug-Oct 15, Open dawn-9 pm

City of Midland
Downtown Midland next to the Tridge

May 1-Oct 15

Hours: 6 am-11 pm

Recent Sightings

In the spring, female American Robins choose nest sites on horizontal branches that are hidden by a layer of dense leaves or foliage. They build their nest from the inside out using the wrist of one of their wings to press dead grass and twigs into a cup shape. The nest is then reinforced using mud gathered from worm castings. Other materials such as paper, feathers, or moss is added to finish the nest. Once the nest is complete she will lay 3-5 eggs that she will incubate for two-weeks before they hatch.

Upcoming Events

What's in a Name? Flower Folklore

Wednesday, May 3
6-7:30 pm

People have used plants for food, medicine, and enjoyment throughout history. Join CNC staff for a casual trail walk to discover the uses, names and other folklore of a variety of plants. Meet at the Visitor Center

FREE | Ages 15+, under 18 w/adult

Bird Walk

Friday, May 5

8-10 am

Spring migration is underway with new birds arriving every day! CNCs variety of habitats support over 200 bird species making this an excellent wildlife hotspot. Learn to identify birds by using field marks, listening for songs and calls, watching flight patterns and using habitat clues. Birders of all experience levels are welcome. Loaner binoculars are available or bring your own. Meet at the Visitor Center.

FREE | Ages: 9+, under 18 w/adult

Full Moon Stroll

Friday, May 5

8:30-10 pm

Join an Interpretive Naturalist for a hike to enjoy this months full moon. Learn how the tradition of naming moons began and what makes each month special. Please wear dark colors and bring a flashlight. Meet at the Visitor Center.

FREE | Ages: 9+, under 18 w/adult

See the full calendar of events

Nature Day Camp 2023

Many families are continuing to finalize their summer plans, and we expect movement on our waitlists. We encourage families to join the waitlists for their desired sessions.

Paddling Camp | Ages 13-16
June 7-9
Just 2 spots remain!

Advanced Chippewa Rangers | Ages 9-11
2 Week Session - June 19-30
Just 1 spot remains!

2 Week Session - July 24-Aug 4
Just 1 spot remains!

Tiny Trailblazers | Ages 3-4

June 19-23 - Afternoon Session
Just 6 spots remain!

June 26-30 - Morning Session
Just 1 spot remains!

July 10-14 - Afternoon Session
Just 2 spots remain!

Tip-of-the-Mitten Adventures | Ages 11-13
July 31-Aug 4
Just 1 spot remain!

Call for Volunteers

Nature Day Camp
Teen Volunteers
Deadline extended!
Applications open until filled

Enthusiastic teens who enjoy connecting with young children outdoors can volunteer with Nature Day Camp! Volunteers assist CNC staff in caring for campers throughout the day by leading games, helping with crafts and supervising lunchtime activities. Teens must be between the ages of 13 and 17 and be available for week-long assignments, Monday to Friday. We ask that volunteers commit to at least two weeks of volunteer work.

Visitor Center Gardening Volunteers

Join a team of enthusiastic gardeners working to showcase native plants in the gardens around the Visitor Center. These gardens help welcome thousands of visitors each year and demonstrate the importance and functionality of using native plants in home and business landscapes. Working in collaboration with CNC staff, gardeners will weed, water, mulch, plant and maintain the gardens throughout the growing season.

Weekend Land Maintenance Volunteers

Meets 2nd Saturday of each month from 9-11 am

Join a group of individuals with the desire to contribute to CNC by assisting the Land Management Department in providing an enjoyable experience for visitors. Activities may include trail maintenance, tree pruning and maintaining tree cages. Volunteers do not need to commit to every weekend, come as you are able.

Visitor Services Associate

Status: Part time, Permanent

Application Deadline: May 10 or open until filled

Support Chippewa Nature Center

Our mission is to connect all people with nature through educational, recreational and cultural experiences.