Budding Naturalist: Macroinvertebrates (Ages 10-14)

Does your child love nature and want to expand their identification skills? In this special COVID-adapted program geared toward older students ages 10-14, participants can join our experts for weekly small group, outdoor sessions. Though programming will take place outdoors, participants are required to wear a face covering at all times.

Calling all bug lovers! Let’s delve into macroinvertebrates and get our hands dirty, catching and identifying some of the smallest members of the animal kingdom. As we explore garden, forest, and fresh/saltwater habitats, we’ll discover that macroinvertebrates encompass a lot more than just insects; some can even be used as indicators of pollution. Registration for this school year program includes Gardens admission for one child and one adult, which is made possible by grant funding.

Please note: In an effort to keep the group size small, this is a drop-off program. If your child would be more comfortable with you nearby, please contact Erika Huber at ehuber@mainegardens.org before the session to discuss options. If this session is full, please call 207-633-8000 to be added to our waiting list.

Erika Huber is the Youth and Family Program Coordinator for Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens. She holds degrees in forestry and horticulture and has over ten years’ experience working with children in environmental and gardening education.

Bridget VerVaet has been the Education Programs Assistant at Coastal Maine Botanical Gardens since 2018; she can most often be found leading youth groups and families in nature-based education programs. She holds a degree in biology and enjoys sharing the wonders of natural world with guests of all ages.