Outreach
Have Carpenter Nature Center come to you! If programs in the “outdoor classroom” at CNC are not an option for your group, Carpenter naturalists are available to conduct programs at your location on a large variety of topics. Many of the most popular outreaches feature CNC’s live program animals!
Programs Available
We offer three types of Outreach programming. Classroom, Stage Show, and Education Booth. Some of our programs can only be offered during certain times of the year. Please look closely at the program you wish to schedule and that it is available during the season of your visit. In some cases programs can be modified. Call 651-437-4359 for more information.
Classroom Programs
These hands-on programs are designed for a small group (max. 35 students). Programs are 45 minutes to 1 hour in length and most include live animals.
Animal Storytime- Grades PreK – 1– Listen to a nature story and meet some live animals featured in the book! Many topics are available. Call for more details.
Move Like the Animals- Grades preK-4– Can you hop like a rabbit or slither like a snake? Watch live animals to learn how movement helps them catch their food or escape predators.
Beastly Bodies- Grades K-4– Discover how the bodies of insects, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals help protect them from danger and what special features enable them to live in their environment.
Raptor & Pellet Investigation- Grades K-6– Meet a live raptor and discover what they eat through a hands-on pellet investigation!
Reptiles and Amphibians- Grades 2-6– Get a close look at live reptiles. Find out what reptiles and amphibians have in common and how they are different.
Amazing Adaptations- Grades 3-6– Discover some of the special adaptations animals have to help them survive in their environment. Learn about adaptations by seeing live animals and animal artifacts.
Stage Shows
For large groups (more than 35 people), CNC offers live animal assemblies at your site. Presentations are 30 minutes to 1 hour in length.
Raptors– Learners of all ages- Observe live raptors, learn about their similarities and differences, and hear about adaptations a bird of prey has to help it survive.
Animals of the St. Croix River Valley- Learners of all ages- Learn about some of the amazing animals that call the St. Croix River Valley their home, and them meet them up-close!
Animals of the St. Croix River Valley– Learners of all ages- Learn about some of the amazing animals that call the St. Croix River Valley their home, and meet them up close!
Booth Programs
Intended for a more informal setting, CNC will set up a table at your fair, festival, carnival, showcase or other event. Booth durations vary depending on type of program and the kinds of animals on display. Can be paired with an assembly presentation with additional staffing.
Touch Table– Learners of all ages- Touch live animals including insects, amphibians, reptiles, and mammals. Additional animal artifacts displayed including snake sheds, turtle shells, bones, antlers, and furs.
Animal Art– Families with young children- CNC will provide an animal related craft based on the theme you request. Animal face painting can also be provided based on staff availability.
Information Fair– Learners of all ages- Browse the variety of events, programs, activities, and services offered by CNC throughout the year. A knowledgeable staff person will be available with brochures,
newsletters, and additional literature with information about Carpenter Nature Center.
Fees
$100 for one, 30-minute program
$150.00 for one, hour-long program
$100.00 per hour for each additional program on the same day at the same location
Plus current mileage rate (within 30 miles)
***Additional fees may apply for longer programs, travel time, program development, or if more staff are needed to ensure quality programming and the safety of live animals.
Discipline & Emergencies
Though CNC staff are prepared to deal with most discipline and medical emergencies, it is the site’s responsibility to handle these situations should they arise. If weather emergencies occur, we will assume that the site host informs guests of weather procedures.
Other Accommodations and Considerations
CNC may require additional accommodations to be provided by your site. Some programs require tables, tents, sound systems, projectors, or other materials and equipment not furnished by CNC. Additionally, factors such as the season and weather may affect scheduling. Please inquire if additional accommodations or considerations are necessary for the program type you have requested.