The Junior Naturalists Program is gearing up for a summer of fun and educational programs on designated Saturdays at the Idyllwild Nature Center. Starting June 25 from 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., the Junior Naturalists will be learning “What’s Beneath the Earth.” This program will focus on geology.
All programs are open to ages 4 to 12. Mentors Sally Hedberg and Donald Dietz will present the programs, along with Jessica Ruelas and McKenzie Nunez, summer Junior Naturalist interns. The program is made possible by a grant from the Community Foundation of Riverside and San Bernardino Counties.
At the second program on July 16, Junior Naturalists will learn “The History of the Idyllwild Region,” led by Laura Kruse with help from interns Jessica, McKenzie, Rory Wilke, Daniel Najar and Dylan Stewart.
The third program on July 23 will focus on “Plants and Pollinators,” and is led by Sherri Domenigoni and interns Rory, Jessica, Gracie McKimson, Rosalind Gong, Kaelynn Axline and Brooke Taylor.
The last two programs will be in August. Susie and Richard Hampson will lead “Birds and Bird Watching,” assisted by Lainie Wilke, Emmi Norris, Brooke, Rosalind, Marianna Igovdin, Gracie, Jessica and Rory on Aug. 13.
The final program on Aug. 20 is “Fire: The Good, The Bad and the Ugly,” led by Nobuko Christenson with interns, Marianna, Rory, Lainie, Emmi, Jessica, Daniel and Dylan.
The cost is $4 per child or free if the family has a family membership to the Friends of the San Jacinto Mountain Parks. Memberships are available at the Nature Center for $30 and have great benefits, allowing family members to visit the Nature Center at no cost. All Junior Naturalist Programs include crafts, a nature hike and snacks.
The Idyllwild Nature Center is located at 25225 Highway 243 in Idyllwild. The phone number is 951-659-3850.
