At Chikaming Open Lands (COL), we not only protect and restore natural open spaces in our community; we also inspire and help teach the next generation of nature enthusiasts and conservationists!
COL has partnered with New Buffalo, Bridgman, and River Valley Elementary schools to offer The Mighty Acorns, an environmental education program targeted at third, fourth, and fifth-grade students.
The Mighty Acorns program combines classroom curriculum with field study trips held on COL nature preserves and led by our staff and volunteers. The curriculum was developed by a group of teachers, naturalists, and scientists led by the Field Museum in Chicago to reflect the latest scientific and environmental information available, aligning with federal education standards.
History
During the 2016-2017 school year, COL and River Valley Elementary School brought this adaptive environmental education program to Berrien County. Starting at Robinson and Flynn Woods Preserves, River Valley Elementary students paved the way for their underclassmen and other local elementary schools.
Did you know that the Robinson Woods Mighty Oak Loop is a tribute to the Mighty Acorns students? They helped us create that trail!
Each year since, the Mighty Acorns classes venture out to our properties three times per year to observe the seasons. During their trips, students play an educational game to reinforce their classroom curriculum, participate in stewardship (yes, they get to use loppers!), and freely explore the preserve.
New in 2025 Homeschool Mighty Acorns
This year, we’re excited to expand the program by offering an option for homeschool students! This fall, we’ll begin with the 3rd-grade curriculum, which focuses on birds. The Homeschool program will include one field day each season at a COL preserve. Location and additional details will be shared with registered families closer to the start of the program.
Registration for Homeschool Mighty Acorns opens Monday, October 6 at 11 am.
Register here: Mighty Acorns Homeschool Registration
Questions? Contact Grace gball@chikamingopenlands.org
