Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve will soon be taking registrations for its Environmental Studies Programs for the 2017 to 2018 season.

Each year, nearly 5,000 area students and youth groups participate in Fernwood’s ESP programs, either on-site at Fernwood or through the in-school Travelling Naturalist program.

All programs are based on a science curriculum that incorporates both basic state guidelines and hands-on activities at age-appropriate levels. Most importantly, Fernwood’s naturalist staff strives to make every Fernwood experience fun and positive for each student.

Fernwood prides itself in teaching children to be more responsible stewards of our environment.

The curriculum in the ESP program supports what the schools are currently teaching, and on-site visits give children hands-on experience.

On-site programs at Fernwood run one and a half to two hours in length and are tailored to the season.

In-school Travelling Naturalist programs are offered January through March with limited availability during the rest of the school year. Fees start at $50 for one class/program and increase based on the number of programs, with an additional 45 cents per mile above 20 miles round-trip from Fernwood.

Registration for the 2017-2018 school year opens at 10 a.m. Tuesday, Aug. 1. Available slots fill quickly. For more information about Fernwood and the ESP, please visit our website.

Fernwood is a special place where nature blends with gardens and art to create an experience of wonder for all ages. Fernwood comprises 105 acres on the St. Joseph River near Buchanan, Michigan, at 13988 Range Line Road, Niles.

Hours are 10 a.m.  to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Saturday, noon to 6 p.m. Sunday. Café hours are 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday, and noon to 3 p.m. Sunday.

Call (269) 695-6491 or visit fernwoodbotanical.org for more information and to confirm status of classes.

The fee is $3.50 per student. Teachers and adults are free. Donations will be accepted.