Discover the long standing history of maple sugaring at Bendix Woods County Park. Participants will learn about the process of making maple syrup and venture outdoors for a hands-on demonstration to tap a sugar maple tree. The program will end with a visit to the Sugar House to observe sap being transformed into maple syrup. After the program, a chili lunch and maple desserts will be provided. Cost: $15/person. This is a one-day clas held on Monday, March 3.

The course will start with a short introduction to calculus. We will then cover force, motion, work, energy, Kepler's Laws about planetary motion, and Newtonian gravity. We will cover temperature, the laws of thermodynamics, and the basics of the kinetic theory of ideal gases (including Avogadro's constant and the universal gas law). We will end with electricity and magnetism; and the beginning of quantum mechanics (including Planck's constant, the quantization of energy, and Bohr's model of the hydrogen atom). The course requirement is high school algebra, which we will review as needed.

Ever wonder how our amazing immune system works? It's all about how the body detects and eliminates harmful threats or invading pathogens that, if left unchecked, will cause disease or worse. This course will examine our immune system in detail, concentrating on how specific cells, biochemicals and barriers interact to protect us. Knowledge of basic biology is helpful, but not necessary as applicable concepts will be explained and questions answered.

Meet a Naturalist at a St. Joseph County Park once monthly to learn about nature's springtime revival. We will start with an indoor presentation about what is happening that month with the plants and animals in our region. Then hit the trails to observe nature in action. Prepare for the weather! Bring binoculars; some loaners are available. Fee: $15. To our first meeting, please bring cash or a check made out to the St. Joseph County Parks. Thursday, March 6 9 to 11 am St. Patrick's County Park Brown Barn Thursday, April 3 9 to 11 am Spicer Lake Nature Preserve Visitors Center Thursday, May 1 9 to 11 am Bendix Woods County Park Nature Center

We will explore the life of Darwin and examine how his theory has changed our world. Whether or not you believe in a God or in gods, evolution has transformed the way we look at nature, and it is imperative that we understand that transformation. (The recent pandemic is one such example of that transformation.) Over 1/3 of Americans do not accept evolution. The class’s purpose is not to make you a believer in evolution -- the purpose is to see how natural selection affects every aspect of your life. Young-earth creationists are welcome! One text: A Modest Genius by Hanne Strager, ca. $10. About me: I am trained as a historian of science and have taught at the Univ of Florida and Notre Dame.

Ready, set, hike! During this series, you will get to explore several parks and observe different plant and animal habitats while getting in healthy exercise. This program will consist of six guided hikes, some of which may take place on moderately hilly terrain and muddy trails. The cost for the entire series is $20, which is due at the first hike. Hikes will take place at 9 AM on Wednesday, from March 26th to April 30th. The first hike will take place at St. Patrick's County Park.

Enjoy learning about local bird species found at the various St. Joseph County Park locations. Requirements for the class are a love for the outdoors and a passion to learn about birds! Park Locations: St. Patrick's County Park April 8 8:30am-11:00am Spicer Lake Nature Preserve April 15 8:30am-11:00am Bendix Woods County Park April 22 8:30am-11:00am To be announced April 29 8:30am-11:00am Beverly D, Crone Restoration Area May 6 8:30am-11:00am Cost: $25/person