Special Programs
Throughout the year the Ballard Nature Center strives to offer programs to the community that appeal to all ages and interests. Spring ushers in programs such as "Frog Follies." Summer offers night programs like "Batty for Bats." Fall is when the annual "Outdoor Day" takes place. Winter brings "Family Science Night".

Outdoor Day is made possible by many partnerships within the community. Local artisans, historians, teachers and biologists pull together for this all-day family event. Outdoor Day offers historical portrayals, raptor shows, archery, fishing, llama trekking, face painting, children's games and so much more. We are always looking for new ideas and presenters for this event, so please contact us if you wish to get involved.

Family Science Night is offered in February and is led by professor Brian Poelker and university student volunteers. Past topics for this event include Dinosaurs Devour Ballard, Ballard Defies Gravity, and Science Rocks. Participants to this event are actively involved as they visit many hands-on learning stations after a presentation by Mr. Poelker. Children and parents go away from this event filled with new-found knowledge and a heightened appreciation for science.

Ballard Nature Center's Family Science Night Made a Real Splash (PDF, 713 KB)

Ballard Nature Center is the site where National Wild Turkey Federation's offers "Women in the Outdoors" and "JAKES" events.

The Illinois Department of Natural Resources and the Illinois Natural History Survey use the nature center intermittently to offer education and training programs like "ENTICE" and "IWIN".