Middle school students gain outdoor experience at ONP

For the twenty-sixth year 35 incoming seventh and eighth graders from Boone Central and St. Michael’s took part in a summer enrichment program at Olson Nature Preserve on June 1-3.
Upon arrival at the preserve, Bob Coakes led students through the seven ecosystems while instructing them on plant and animal life located there. The students then were instructed by Mark Seier about various Nebraska snakes. His message about the benefits of snakes was followed by various hands-on experiences with fox snakes. He also provided a leopard gecko so the students would realize the necessity of acquiring native pets instead of exotic ones.
Tuesday continued by introducing a homestead project with group members focusing on rules and traditions with Chris Grundmayer.
Complete story by Cheri Blocher in the June 9 Albion News and Boone County Tribune, print and e-editions.