ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES

Programs of Nature Discovery and Service-Learning for Adults

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 Education SESSIONS

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.

Fall 2025 Courses

• Meet the Trees: Champion and Elder Trees of Wesselman Woods
  September 8 from 6-8 PM  •  Presenter: Derek Walsh, Director of Natural Resources and Research at Wesselman Woods

  • Wesselman Woods is home to some of the most impressive trees east of the Mississippi River – towering giants that have stood for centuries and earned state champion status. In this class, we’ll explore the stories, science, and legacy of these “charismatic trees,” from old white oaks to record-breaking sweetgums. Join us on this guided hike to get up close with these living legends!

• Know Your Trees: ID and Seed Collection
  September 22 from 6-8 PM  •  Presenter: Derek Walsh, Director of Natural Resources and Research at Wesselman Woods

  • Have you ever wondered what kind of tree produces those spikey balls in your yard, or how to tell a hickory from an oak just by its bark or leaves? This hands-on class will teach you how to identify native trees using leaves, bark, and fall fruits. As we explore the forest, we’ll collect acorns, hickory nuts, and other seeds to support Wesselman Woods’ reforestation efforts. You’ll build practical ID skills and help play a role in expanding this urban forest!
     

• Additional courses to be announced!

PAST Courses

• 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