ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES
Programs of Nature Discovery and Service-Learning for Adults
Learning about aquatic macroinvertebrates at Howell Wetlands
Embark on a journey of discovery with our engaging adult nature education courses. Immerse yourself in the beauty and intricacies of the natural world as you learn from knowledgeable instructors and fellow enthusiasts.
Engage in hands-on activities, workshops, and discussions that make learning about nature both informative and enjoyable.
Whether you're a seasoned nature lover or a curious beginner, our courses are designed to deepen your understanding and connection with the environment.
At Wesselman Woods (WW), we offer various educational courses for adults throughout the year including the Indiana Master Naturalist certification series.
The mission of the Indiana Master Naturalist (IMN) program is to bring together natural resource specialists with adult learners to foster an understanding of Indiana’s plants, water, soils and wildlife and promote natural resource volunteer service within the State of Indiana.
In addition to IMN, we offer educational courses for any adults of any background to learn about various environmental topics. No volunteer hours required for these courses.
ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES SERIES
Whether you're walking through an ancient forest, examining plants and animals, or participating in a seed collection, these classes offer unique opportunities to deepen your understanding of our natural world and its challenges. Join us in supporting the Wesselman Woods mission to protect and educate – your participation not only enriches your own knowledge but also contributes to the preservation of our invaluable urban old-growth forest.
No prior education on any of the topics is required. We invite all curious minds to join us!
Looking for continuing education hours for Advanced Indiana Master Naturalist (AIMN)? These courses will fulfill those requirements. (AIMN requires certified individuals to volunteer 30 hours annually and complete 8 hours of education time annually.)
Cost: $20 for public / $15 for members and Indiana Master Naturalist Alumni
Email info@wesselmanwoods.org for the promo code.
Audience: Ages 18+
Don't miss this chance to learn, grow, and make a difference in our community's environmental future.
2026 CourseS
Secrets of Salamanders
Thursday, February 26 from 6-8 PM • Presenter: Dr. Noah Gordon, Professor of Biology at the University of Evansville
Often unseen but always essential, salamanders are key indicators of environmental health. Explore the hidden lives of salamanders as we dive into their ecology, behavior, and importance in forest and wetland ecosystems.
Local Stream Fishes: Diversity, Ecology, and Behavior
Thursday, July 23 from 6-8 PM • Presenter: Dr. James Bandoli, Professor Emeritus of Biology at the University of Southern Indiana
More details coming soon!
PAST Courses
Meet the Trees: Champion and Elder Trees of Wesselman Woods
Know Your Trees: ID and Seed Collection
Climate Change: Causes, Consequences, and Challenges for the Future
Ecosystem Restoration: Healing our Hurting Planet
Botany the Beautiful: Plant Evolution, Biology, and Ecology
Fish Tales: Biology and Ecology of our Freshwater Friends
Walking Through Time: The Science of Old-Growth Forests
Sugar Maple Tapping
Radiation and Radon: What You Need to Know
Bryophyte Workshop
Tree Ring Science
"What is Climate Change?"
Fungi Hike
Interpretation Workshop
Environmental Chemistry
