Oxbow Meadows Environmental Center (photo courtesy of the Department of Industry, Trade and Tourism)

REGION 3 Oxbow Meadows Environmental Center (photo courtesy of the Georgia Department of Industry, Trade and Tourism) SOUTHEASTERN PLAINS Bartram Educational Forest

2892 HWY 441 South, Milledgeville, GA 31061

OPERATED BY COUNTY: Baldwin Georgia Forestry Commission PUBLIC CONTACT: OFFERING John Gormly - Educational Field Trip/Educational Program, Outdoor Classroom Resource, Outdoor Coordinator Recreation TELEPHONE: (478) 445-2119 AUDIENCES SERVED Public Schools, Private Schools, Home Schools, Teachers, Scouts/Youth Groups, FAX: (478) 445-1426 General Public EMAIL: UNIQUE FEATURES [email protected] Genetically improved trees, orchards for pine seeds, test areas for evaluating the growth and health of trees. WEBSITE: www.gfc.state.ga.us EDUCATIONAL FOCUS Agriculture/Farming, Animals/Wildlife, Biodiversity, Conservation, Ecology, HOURS OF OPERATION: Environmental Health, Habitats/Ecosystems, Nature Awareness, Outdoor Monday through Friday: 8:30 AM - Recreation, Plants, Sustainability, Trees/Forests 4:30 PM, by arrangement Closed on state holidays DESCRIPTION Bartram Forest is a 2,000+ acre state property managed by the Georgia Forestry AGE/GRADE SERVED: Commission. The forest was named after the great American naturalist, William K, 1st - 12th, College, Adult Bartram, who walked through the Forest in 1775. The property includes orchards of genetically improved pine trees from which seeds are collected for the QCC: Yes reforestation of Georgia. Bartram Forest has several "progeny test plots," in which trees are evaluated for growth and disease resistance. The Georgia Forestry ARRANGEMENTS: Commission held its Forestry Field Day 2001 in Bartram Forest; consequently, People who want to visit the Forest there are many sites demonstrating many aspects of forestry, such as planting, may phone 478-445-2119 to discuss thinning, and establishing wildlife habitats in the Forest. availability and accessibility of sites within the Forest. ADDITIONAL SITE/FACILITY AMENITIES Bus Parking, Fishing - permit required, Hiking Trails, Picnic Area - Covered, PROGRAM/ADMISSION COSTS: Restrooms Free

DIRECTIONS BIRD-WATCHING OPPORTUNITIES: The main office is on Hwy. 441, approximately 5 miles south of Milledgeville, GA. Feeders, Bird habitats, Birding classes or field trips

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE? Some Areas

78 For additional information, please visit www.EEinGEORGIA.org Birdsong Nature Center

2106 Meridian Road, Thomasville, GA 31792

OPERATED BY COUNTY: Grady Birdsong Nature Center PUBLIC CONTACT: OFFERING Kathleen Brady - Executive Director Educational Materials/Curriculum, Exhibit/Display, Field Trip/Educational Program, Membership, Outdoor Classroom Resource, Outreach TELEPHONE: (229) 377-4408 Program/Speaker, Public/Family Program, Star Watch Program FAX: (229) 377-8723 AUDIENCES SERVED Public Schools, Private Schools, Home Schools, Teachers, Non-formal EMAIL: Educators, Families, Scouts/Youth Groups, Special Needs, General Public, [email protected] Senior Citizen Organizations WEBSITE: UNIQUE FEATURES www.freenet.tlh.fl.us/birdsong Living Museum and Outdoor Classroom, hands-on nature and conservation education, prescribed burning, rare sightings in the bird window, butterfly life cycle HOURS OF OPERATION: in the butterfly garden, Bluebird trail - ideal for bluebird habitat Wednesday, Friday and Saturday: 9 AM - 5 PM EDUCATIONAL FOCUS Sunday: 1 PM - 5 PM Animals/Wildlife, Astronomy, Biodiversity, Conservation, Cultural Awareness, Ecology, Endangered Species, Environmental Health, Habitats/Ecosystems, AGE/GRADE SERVED: Nature Awareness, Plants, Trees/Forests, Water, Bird Sanctuary, Butterfly Pre-K (4's), Pre-K (5's), K, 1st - Garden, Prescribed Burning 12th, College, Adult, Senior

DESCRIPTION QCC: Yes From the early 1800s to the present, the land known as Birdsong was transformed from pristine longleaf pine forest, to a plantation, then farm, and now ARRANGEMENTS: a center for conservation and learning. Founders Betty and Ed Komarek created Please call to schedule any group at this haven for wildlife so others will have a place to experience nature and least two weeks in advance. become inspired to protect natural resources everywhere.

Birdsong is 565 acres of beautiful wildlife habitat that are open to the public four days PROGRAM/ADMISSION COSTS: a week. We offer ten miles of trails to bird watch or just hike and enjoy nature. Our Bird Window and Trails: Bird Window is an extraordinary and intimate bird viewing experience. We offer Members: Free programs for groups of school children, teacher training, and we also offer many Nonmembers: $5, children half price different programs for the public to become a part of Birdsong. Programs: (Range From) Members: $4/person and up Nonmembers: $8/person and up ADDITIONAL SITE/FACILITY AMENITIES Discounts for certain groups Bus Parking, Hiking Trails, Picnic Area - Uncovered, Restrooms, Listening Place, Bird Window, Gift Shop BIRD-WATCHING OPPORTUNITIES: Feeders, Bird habitats, Binoculars DIRECTIONS available for loan, Bird species From Thomasville, GA: Take Route 319 South, make a right at Meridian Road, checklist for site, Birding classes or (Citgo on corner) and go aprox. 5 miles we are located on the left. A little sign field trips, Knowledgeable birder on reads, "Birdsong." staff, Bird Walk Programs

From Tallahassee: Take 319 North, make a left at Meridian Road, (Citgo on WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE? corner), go aprox. 5 miles and we are located on the left. A little sign reads, No "Birdsong."

79 For additional information, please visit www.EEinGEORGIA.org Brown's Mount

4182 Forsyth Road, Macon, GA 31210

OPERATED BY COUNTY: Bibb Museum of Arts and Sciences PUBLIC CONTACT: OFFERING Nikki Price - Animal Curator Educational Materials/Curriculum, Field Trip/Educational Program, Outdoor Recreation, Public/Family Program TELEPHONE: (478) 477-3232 Ext. 108 AUDIENCES SERVED FAX: (478) 477-3251 Public Schools, Private Schools, Home Schools, Teachers, Non-formal Educators, Families, Scouts/Youth Groups, Special Needs, General Public EMAIL: UNIQUE FEATURES [email protected] Pavillion, Astronomy Pad WEBSITE: EDUCATIONAL FOCUS www.masmacon.com Air, Animals/Wildlife, Astronomy, Biodiversity, Climate Change/Weather, HOURS OF OPERATION: Conservation, Ecology, Environmental Health, Geology, Habitats/Ecosystems, Outdoor Recreation, Plants, Pollution, Sustainability, Trees/Forests, Water Day and night hikes on the 2nd Saturday of each month. DESCRIPTION AGE/GRADE SERVED: A limestone capped mount above the Ocmulgee flood plain, Brown's Mount is a Pre-K (0-1), Pre-K (2's), Pre-K former homestead, farm, and poet's retreat that has been allowed to return to (3's), Pre-K (4's), Pre-K (5's), K, nature over the past 20 years. 5,500 acre Bond Swamp 1st - 12th, College, Adult, Senior borders property to the west. QCC: Yes ADDITIONAL SITE/FACILITY AMENITIES Bus Parking, Hiking Trails, Picnic Area - Covered, Restrooms ARRANGEMENTS: Advanced reservations only. A DIRECTIONS minimum of two weeks notice is From Macon, travel east on I-16 to exit 5, and then south for 2 miles.Turn right required for school groups. on Bondsview Road and travel .2 miles. Turn left on Joe Brown Drive and travel .4 miles. Turn left into the preserve. PROGRAM/ADMISSION COSTS: Schools: Free to Bibb County students $3 for students in other counties $3 members $5 non-members

BIRD-WATCHING OPPORTUNITIES: Bird habitats, Birding classes or field trips, Knowledgeable birder on staff

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE? Some Areas

80 For additional information, please visit www.EEinGEORGIA.org Chattahoochee-Flint Georgia Youth Science & Technology Center GSW-SOE, 800 Wheatley Street, Americus, GA 31709

OPERATED BY COUNTY: Sumter Georgia Southwestern State University School of Education PUBLIC CONTACT: OFFERING Lynn Larsen - Regional Coordinator Educational Materials/Curriculum, Field Trip/Educational Program, Outreach Program/Speaker, Professional Development, Public/Family Program TELEPHONE: (229) 931-2167

AUDIENCES SERVED FAX: (229) 931-2163 Public Schools, Private Schools, Teachers, Non-formal Educators, Families, Scouts/Youth Groups EMAIL: [email protected] UNIQUE FEATURES Chattahoochee Flint GYSTC is proud to develop courses based on teacher wants WEBSITE: and needs. NA

EDUCATIONAL FOCUS HOURS OF OPERATION: Agriculture/Farming, Conservation, Ecology, Gardening/Composting, Geology, NA Team Building/Problem Solving AGE/GRADE SERVED: DESCRIPTION K, 1st - 12th, College Chattahoochee-Flint GYSTC is a non-profit organization aimed at helping educate teachers and students of Georgia on various science and technology issues. QCC: Yes Environomental Education courses, including Project WET, Project WILD, and PLT are offered in the region. ARRANGEMENTS: Call for arrangements. ADDITIONAL SITE/FACILITY AMENITIES NA PROGRAM/ADMISSION COSTS: School Systems are members of DIRECTIONS GYSTC through paying dues each year. Call for costs. Call for directions.

BIRD-WATCHING OPPORTUNITIES: NA

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE? Yes

81 For additional information, please visit www.EEinGEORGIA.org Wetland Education Center

4661 Knights Academy Road, Valdosta, GA 31605

OPERATED BY COUNTY: Lowndes Operated by the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and Coastal Plains RESA PUBLIC CONTACT: Neda Hon - Coordinator OFFERING Environmental Service, Field Trip/Educational Program, Outdoor Classroom TELEPHONE: (229) 333-0052 Resource, Outreach Program/Speaker, Professional Development, Summer SDU Workshops, Accredited Teacher Training FAX: (229) 333-0052

AUDIENCES SERVED EMAIL: Public Schools, Private Schools, Home Schools, Teachers, Universities, [email protected] Colleges, Technical Colleges WEBSITE: UNIQUE FEATURES www.cpresa.org Certified teacher on site for all day instruction HOURS OF OPERATION: EDUCATIONAL FOCUS 8 AM - 4 PM Air, Animals/Wildlife, Biodiversity, Conservation, Ecology, Endangered Species, Environmental Health, Geology, Habitats/Ecosystems, Nature Awareness, Plants, AGE/GRADE SERVED: Team Building/Problem Solving, Trees/Forests, Water Pre-K (0-1), Pre-K (2's), Pre-K (3's), Pre-K (4's), Pre-K (5's), K, DESCRIPTION 1st - 12th, College Grand Bay is a partnership between the Georgia Department of Natural Resources and Coastal Plains RESA. Grand Bay offers a 1/2 mile boardwalk, a QCC: Yes 54 foot tower and an education center. A certified teacher is on hand for all day instruction. Make reservations as early in the school year as possible, as early as ARRANGEMENTS: the first day of pre-planning. Local schools have priority. Open to school groups only by reservation. To make reservations ADDITIONAL SITE/FACILITY AMENITIES call 229-546-4094. Only 2 classes (same grade, same school) allowed Bus Parking, Picnic Area - Covered and Uncovered, Restrooms, 1/2 mile daily. Make reservations early in the Boardwalk, 54 foot Viewing Tower school year. DIRECTIONS PROGRAM/ADMISSION COSTS: Take Bemiss Road or Hwy. 125 eight miles north of Valdosta on Knights Summer SDU Workshops: Any Academy Road to the Grand Bay Wildlife Management Area. teacher in Coastal Plains RESA - no charge. Fee for teachers outside this area. No charge for programs.

BIRD-WATCHING OPPORTUNITIES: Feeders, Bird habitats, Binoculars available for loan, Birding classes or field trips

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE? Yes

82 For additional information, please visit www.EEinGEORGIA.org Howard E. Bennett Forestry Museum

5645 Riggins Mill Road, Dry Branch, GA 31020

OPERATED BY COUNTY: Bibb Georgia Forestry Commission PUBLIC CONTACT: OFFERING NA Field Trip/Educational Program TELEPHONE: (478) 751-3530 AUDIENCES SERVED Public Schools, Private Schools, Home Schools, Scouts/Youth Groups, General FAX: (478) 751-3559 Public, Anyone Interested EMAIL: UNIQUE FEATURES [email protected] The Howard E. Bennett Forestry Museum is a 7 room log cabin displaying the various aspects of forestry - fire protection, wood products, management, and WEBSITE: turpentine industry. Also on site are a restored turpentine still, fire tower, and an www.gfc.state.ga.us arboretum. HOURS OF OPERATION: EDUCATIONAL FOCUS Monday - Friday: 8:30 AM - 4 PM Trees/Forests, History Closed on state holidays

DESCRIPTION AGE/GRADE SERVED: Located at the Georgia Forestry Commission headquarters, the museum offers Pre-K (0-1), Pre-K (2's), Pre-K visitors a self-guided historical perspective of forestry. (3's), Pre-K (4's), Pre-K (5's), K, 1st - 12th, College, Adult, Senior ADDITIONAL SITE/FACILITY AMENITIES QCC: NA Picnic Area - Uncovered, Governors Grove ARRANGEMENTS: DIRECTIONS For a guided tour contact your local In Macon: I-16 to Exit 6; North on US 23 (Ocmulgee East Blvd); right on Joe Georgia Forestry Commission County Tamplin Industrial Blvd; right at caution light onto Riggins Mill Rd; Georgia office – a directory is available on our Forestry Commission is located on the right. Enter at second entrance and follow web site. Museum signs. Also see map on web site. PROGRAM/ADMISSION COSTS: Free

BIRD-WATCHING OPPORTUNITIES: NA

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE? Some Areas

83 For additional information, please visit www.EEinGEORGIA.org State Historic Park

205 Indian Mounds Road, Blakely, GA 39823

OPERATED BY COUNTY: Early Georgia Department of Natural Resources - Parks and Historic Sites Division PUBLIC CONTACT: OFFERING Eric Bentley - Park Manager Exhibit/Display, Field Trip/Educational Program, Outdoor Recreation, Public/Family Program TELEPHONE: (229) 724-2150

AUDIENCES SERVED FAX: (229) 724-2152 Public Schools, Private Schools, Home Schools, Teachers, Non-formal Educators, Families, Scouts/Youth Groups, Special Needs, General Public EMAIL: [email protected] UNIQUE FEATURES Six story high Temple Mound. Open mound inside of museum. Unique pottery WEBSITE: found only here. www.gastateparks.org

EDUCATIONAL FOCUS HOURS OF OPERATION: Cultural Awareness, Outdoor Recreation Park: 7 days per week: 7 AM - 10 PM DESCRIPTION Museum: Tuesday - Saturday: 9 AM - 5 PM We have seven pre-historic Indian mounds and a museum that are available to Sunday: 2 PM - 5:30 PM individuals or groups for tours. These mounds were built between 250 and 950 Closed Monday unless a legal holiday A.D. by the Kolomoki, Weeden Island, and Lamar cultures of Indians. Featured in our museum: a 10 minute film, exquisite burial pottery from the mounds, displays of their culture, and scenes of everyday life. Visitors are also able AGE/GRADE SERVED: to walk into an open mound to view the inside of the mound. Additional Pre-K (0-1), Pre-K (2's), Pre-K information is available at www.geocities.com/kolomokistatepark. (3's), Pre-K (4's), Pre-K (5's), K, 1st - 12th, College, Adult, Senior ADDITIONAL SITE/FACILITY AMENITIES QCC: No Boating Allowed, Bus Parking, Camping - Campers and Tents,, Fishing - no permit required, Hiking Trails, Pets allowed on leash, Picnic Areas - Covered and ARRANGEMENTS: Uncovered, Restrooms, Swimming Groups must call ahead and make an appointment. Confirmations will be DIRECTIONS sent along with park information. Six miles north of Blakely, Georgia off U.S. 27. Between 1st and 2nd Kolomoki Roads. PROGRAM/ADMISSION COSTS: $2.50 Adults, $1.50 Children Ages 6- 18, Adult Group and Seniors $2.00, Groups ages 6-18 $1.00, Groups 5 years and under $0.75. Groups are over 15 persons.

BIRD-WATCHING OPPORTUNITIES: Bird species checklist for site, Bird Watching Platforms available on trail

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE? Some Areas

84 For additional information, please visit www.EEinGEORGIA.org Little Ocmulgee State Park

P.O. Drawer 149, McRae, GA 31055

OPERATED BY COUNTY: Wheeler Georgia Department of Natural Resources PUBLIC CONTACT: OFFERING NA Educational Materials/Curriculum, Exhibit/Display, Field Trip/Educational Program, Outdoor Classroom Resource, Outdoor Recreation, Public/Family TELEPHONE: (229) 868-7474 Program Ext. 6027

AUDIENCES SERVED FAX: (229) 868-3007 Public Schools, Private Schools, Home Schools, Teachers, Non-formal EMAIL: Educators, Families, Scouts/Youth Groups, General Public N/A UNIQUE FEATURES WEBSITE: We have a good population of Gopher Tortoise on-site. From our nature trail burrows can be observed. www.gastateparks.org

EDUCATIONAL FOCUS HOURS OF OPERATION: Animals/Wildlife, Biodiversity, Conservation, Ecology, Endangered Species, We are open 7 days a week. The Habitats/Ecosystems, Nature Awareness, Outdoor Recreation, Plants, boat ramp closes at dark. Restaurant Trees/Forests, Water is open Monday through Saturday for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. On Sunday it is open for breakfast and DESCRIPTION lunch. Our site is located 2 miles North of McRae, Ga. on U.S. Hwy 441.The park consists of 1,277 acres, a 265 acre lake with paddle boats and canoes available, AGE/GRADE SERVED: 2.3 miles of nature trails, 2 tennis courts, 6 picnic shelters, pioneer camp, 18 hole Pre-K (0-1), Pre-K (2's), Pre-K golf course, amphitheater, 55 tent, trailer, and RV sites, 30 lodge rooms, (3's), Pre-K (4's), Pre-K (5's), K, conference space, and restaurant. We have nature hike programs, canoe trail 1st - 12th, College, Adult, Senior programs, Gopher Tortoise programs, reptile programs, and art and craft programs available. QCC: Some

ADDITIONAL SITE/FACILITY AMENITIES ARRANGEMENTS: Boating Allowed, Bus Parking, Camping - Campers and Tents, Fishing - permit No deposit is required for required, Hiking Trails, Lodging, Meals Available, Pets allowed on leash, Picnic programming. Please call 2 weeks in Areas - Covered and Uncovered, Restrooms, Swimming, Tennis, Conference advance for group programming. Space, 18 Hole Golf Course PROGRAM/ADMISSION COSTS: DIRECTIONS Most programs offered are free of From I-16 take US Hwy. 441 south for 35 miles. We are located 2 miles north of charge. The only time charges may McRae on Hwy. 441. apply are when materials are involved. Private vehicles that are not with a school group are required to buy a $2.00 park pass.

BIRD-WATCHING OPPORTUNITIES: Feeders

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE? Yes

85 For additional information, please visit www.EEinGEORGIA.org McDuffie Environmental Education Center

Fish Hatchery Road, Dearing, GA 30808

OPERATED BY COUNTY: McDuffie McDuffie Board of Education with partnering counties of Burke, Emanuel, : Jefferson, Warren, and Lincoln PUBLIC CONTACT Ann Matherly - Director OFFERING Educational Materials, Field Trip, Outdoor Classroom Resource TELEPHONE: (706) 595-2755 Ext. 4614 AUDIENCES SERVED FAX: (706) 597-2528 Public Schools, Private Schools, Home Schools, Teachers, Scouts/Youth Groups EMAIL: UNIQUE FEATURES [email protected] Certified teacher on site to work with the students and teachers. Self-guided interpretive trails through three distinct habitats. The Blackwater Creek Trail is WEBSITE: handicapped accessible. Talking trees are located along all trails. tech.nscdiscovery.org/users/meec/ EDUCATIONAL FOCUS HOURS OF OPERATION: Animals/Wildlife, Biodiversity, Ecology, Endangered Species, Habitats/Ecosystems, Nature Awareness, Plants, Pollution, Population, Call for hours. Recycling/Waste Management, Sustainability, Trees/Forests, Water AGE/GRADE SERVED: DESCRIPTION Pre-K (5's), K, 1st, 2nd, 3rd, 4th, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 9th, 10th, 11th, The McDuffie Environmental Education Center is a collaboration between the 12th McDuffie County Board of Education, the Georgia Department of Natural Resources - Fisheries Division and the Georgia Department of Education, Educational Technology Training Center at the National Science Center. Lessons QCC: Yes are tied to the visit in this diverse biologically and technologically rich site. A fisheries biologist provides consultation and assistance to teachers and students ARRANGEMENTS: on-site as time allows. Preferred school groups of 70 or less. Staff will work with you on The majority of the area is a Sandridge Scrub Oak community with two distinct accommodating larger groups. habitats: the Longleaf Pine habitat and the Blackwater Creek area to include a variety of bottomland hardwoods. The west valley and the east valley watersheds PROGRAM/ADMISSION COSTS: converge below the hatchery to form Fort Creek. Three nature trails interconnect Admission is free to McDuffie, these diverse habitats, providing wildlife viewing areas, environmental research Warren, Jefferson, Emanuel, Burke, opportunities, and naturalist experiences of all kinds. and Lincoln County students. All other students: $3.50 each. ADDITIONAL SITE/FACILITY AMENITIES Bus Parking, Camping - Tents, Fishing - permit required, Hiking Trails, Pets BIRD-WATCHING OPPORTUNITIES: allowed on leash, Picnic Areas - Covered and Uncovered, Restrooms Feeders, Bird habitats, Binoculars available for loan DIRECTIONS From Augusta: US Hwy. 78/278 to Dearing, turn left at Main St. or travel west on WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE? I-20, exit to Harlem (left), in Harlem proceed to US Hwy. 78/278 turn right and Some Areas travel 6 miles to Dearing, turn left on Iron Hill Rd.

From or Thomson: Exit 172 right off of I-20 travel about three miles to US Hwy. 78/278, go left to Dearing (about 8 miles) turn right on Iron Hill Rd.

86 For additional information, please visit www.EEinGEORGIA.org Museum of Arts and Sciences

4182 Forsyth Road, Macon, GA 31210

OPERATED BY COUNTY: Bibb Museum of Arts and Sciences PUBLIC CONTACT: OFFERING Nikki Price - Animal Curator Educational Materials/Curriculum, Exhibit/Display, Field Trip/Educational Program, Membership, Outreach Program/Speaker, Public/Family Program TELEPHONE: (478) 477-3232

AUDIENCES SERVED FAX: (478) 477-3251 Public Schools, Private Schools, Home Schools, Teachers, Non-formal Educators, Families, Scouts/Youth Groups, Special Needs, General Public EMAIL: [email protected] UNIQUE FEATURES Planetarium WEBSITE: www.masmacon.com EDUCATIONAL FOCUS Animals/Wildlife, Astronomy, Biodiversity, Career Choices, Climate HOURS OF OPERATION: Change/Weather, Conservation, Cultural Awareness, Ecology, Endangered Monday - Thursday, Saturday: Species, Habitats/Ecosystems, Nature Awareness, Pollution, Population, 9 AM - 5 PM Recycling/Waste Management, Trees/Forests Friday: 9 AM - 9 PM Sunday: 1 PM - 5 PM DESCRIPTION Museum offers a three level Discovery House, "backyard" for outdoor activities, AGE/GRADE SERVED: nature trail, classroom, changing science exhibits, and planetarium shows. Pre-K (0-1), Pre-K (2's), Pre-K (3's), Pre-K (4's), Pre-K (5's), K, 1st - 12th, College, Adult, Senior ADDITIONAL SITE/FACILITY AMENITIES

Bus Parking, Hiking Trails, Picnic Area - Uncovered, Restrooms, Nature trail QCC: Yes

DIRECTIONS ARRANGEMENTS: Check website or call for directions. Call or e-mail at least 2 weeks in advance to schedule programming.

PROGRAM/ADMISSION COSTS: Varies by program, call or e-mail for information

BIRD-WATCHING OPPORTUNITIES: Feeders, Bird species checklist for site, Knowledgeable birder on staff

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE? Yes

87 For additional information, please visit www.EEinGEORGIA.org Ocmulgee National Monument

1207 Emery Highway, Macon, GA 31217

OPERATED BY COUNTY: Bibb National Park Service PUBLIC CONTACT: OFFERING Steve Rudolph - Park Ranger Educational Materials/Curriculum, Field Trip/Educational Program TELEPHONE: (478) 752-8257 AUDIENCES SERVED Ext. 19 Public Schools, Private Schools, Home Schools, Teachers, Non-formal FAX: (478) 752-8259 Educators, Scouts/Youth Groups, General Public EMAIL: UNIQUE FEATURES [email protected] Interactive Discovery Lab with six learning stations, Teacher's Activity Guide, "Ocmulgee Indian Celebration," an annual 2-day fall event WEBSITE: EDUCATIONAL FOCUS www.nps.gov/ocmu Cultural Awareness, Nature Awareness HOURS OF OPERATION: 9 AM - 5 PM daily except Christmas DESCRIPTION Day and New Year's Day Ocmulgee National Monument commemorates a 12,000-year continuum of people interacting with their Georgia Fall Line environment and with each other. AGE/GRADE SERVED: Section I of "Georgia's Heartland Heritage," the park's activity guide, is devoted to All ages and grades the area's natural resources. QCC: Yes ADDITIONAL SITE/FACILITY AMENITIES Bus Parking, Fishing - permit required, Hiking Trails, Pets allowed on leash, ARRANGEMENTS: Picnic Area - Uncovered, Restrooms Programs must be scheduled at least two weeks in advance. DIRECTIONS Located on the eastern edge of Macon, GA. Travelers on I-75 should exit onto PROGRAM/ADMISSION COSTS: I-16. At Exit 2 turn left on US 80 East (Coliseum Drive), then turn right and follow None US 80 East (Emery Highway) a mile to the park. BIRD-WATCHING OPPORTUNITIES: Bird habitats, Bird species checklist for site

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE? Yes

88 For additional information, please visit www.EEinGEORGIA.org Oxbow Meadows Environmental Learning Center

3535 South Lumpkin Road, Columbus, GA 31901

OPERATED BY COUNTY: Columbus State University. Oxbow's programs are also in Association with Columbus Water Works PUBLIC CONTACT: Janet Brown - Secretary OFFERING Conference or Symposium, Educational Materials/Curriculum, Exhibit/Display, TELEPHONE: (706) 687-4090 Field Trip/Educational Program, Outdoor Classroom Resource, Outdoor Recreation, Outreach Program/Speaker, Professional Development, FAX: (706) 687-3020 Public/Family Program, Technology Resource EMAIL: AUDIENCES SERVED [email protected], Public Schools, Private Schools, Home Schools, Teachers, Non-formal [email protected] Educators, Families, Scouts/Youth Groups, Special Needs, General Public WEBSITE: UNIQUE FEATURES www.oxbow.colstate.edu See Description below HOURS OF OPERATION: EDUCATIONAL FOCUS Tuesday - Friday: 8 AM - 5 PM Air, Animals/Wildlife, Biodiversity, Climate Change/Weather, Conservation, Saturday: 10 AM - 5 PM Cultural Awareness, Ecology, Energy, Endangered Species, Environmental Sunday: 12 PM - 5 PM Health, Gardening/Composting, Habitats/Ecosystems, Nature Awareness, Plants, Monday: Closed Pollution, Recycling/Waste Management, Sustainability, Trees/Forests, Water AGE/GRADE SERVED: DESCRIPTION Pre-K (4's), Pre-K (5's), K, 1st - Oxbow Meadows is located on an oxbow bend of the Chattahoochee River, one 12th, College, Adult, Senior of the oldest inhabited river basins in eastern North America. Oxbow Meadows was conceived in response to a 1990 Georgia law requiring cities with combined QCC: Yes sewer overflow (CSO) facilities to bring them into compliance with water quality standards. Issued with this challenge, government and civic leaders united to ARRANGEMENTS: creatively address this issue. They proposed covering the interceptor lines for the Schedule at least one week in new CSO facility with the Columbus Riverwalk and the construction of Oxbow advance. First come first served. Meadows at the terminus.

Oxbow is in a 1,600-acre hardwood wetland and is within walking distance of the PROGRAM/ADMISSION COSTS: Chattahoochee River. Numerous ponds and wetland environments are used for Regular programs: $3.00/person educational activities. Free admission to the building and grounds

ADDITIONAL SITE/FACILITY AMENITIES BIRD-WATCHING OPPORTUNITIES: Feeders, Bird habitats, Binoculars Bus Parking, Hiking Trails, Pets allowed on leash, Picnic Area - Covered, available for loan, Bird species Restrooms checklist for site, Knowledgeable birder on staff DIRECTIONS Take I-185 south through Columbus. Exit at #1B onto Victory Drive. Drive WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE? approximately 2.3 miles to South Lumpkin Road. Turn left onto South Lumpkin Yes Road. Follow South Lumpkin Road for approximately 3 miles to the stack stone entrance of Oxbow Meadows Environmental Park on your right. The Learning Center is on the left from the parking area.

89 For additional information, please visit www.EEinGEORGIA.org The Parks at Chehaw

105 road, Albany, GA 31701

OPERATED BY COUNTY: Dougherty The Parks at Chehaw PUBLIC CONTACT: OFFERING Clint Murphy - Education Specialist Contest or Award, Educational Materials/Curriculum, Environmental Service, Exhibit/Display, Field Trip/Educational Program, Membership, Outdoor Classroom TELEPHONE: (229) 430-3966 Resource, Outdoor Recreation, Outreach Program/Speaker, Public/Family Program, Residential/Overnight Program FAX: (229) 430-3035

AUDIENCES SERVED EMAIL: Public Schools, Private Schools, Home Schools, Teachers, Non-formal [email protected] Educators, Families, Scouts/Youth Groups, Special Needs, General Public WEBSITE: UNIQUE FEATURES www.parksatchehaw.org Stands of longleaf pine preservation. Only in Georgia participating in the Red Wolf Recovery Project. Come see our new wolves. HOURS OF OPERATION: Open all days except Thanksgiving EDUCATIONAL FOCUS and Christmas days. Air, Animals/Wildlife, Biodiversity, Career Choices, Climate Change/Weather, Gates are open 9 AM - sundown Conservation, Cultural Awareness, Ecology, Energy, Endangered Species, Wild Animal Park closes at 5 PM Environmental Health, Gardening/Composting, Habitats/Ecosystems, Nature Camping admitted until 10 PM Awareness, Outdoor Recreation, Plants, Pollution, Population, Recycling/Waste Management, Sustainability, Team Building/Problem Solving, Trees/Forests, AGE/GRADE SERVED: Water Pre-K (0-5's), K, 1st-12th, College, Adult, Senior DESCRIPTION The Parks at Chehaw is an educational and recreational facility that is located on QCC: Yes 800 acres of Georgia's piney woods. The Wild Animal Park is an AZA accredited facility on more than 100 acres of natural habitat exhibits with elevated ARRANGEMENTS: boardwalks and paths to let you get a close up glimpse of both native and exotic Please schedule programs at least animals. two weeks in advance.

The education department provides education of our natural world through interpretive and interactive classes, overnight programs, outreach, amphitheatre PROGRAM/ADMISSION COSTS: presentations, summer camps, and other programs. Our special events turn School Buses and School Groups holiday times into fun and education for the holidays. ages 3 to 17 Entrance: Park Pass-Per Passenger While visiting Chehaw you can also enjoy creek side nature and biking trails; RV, $.50 tent, primitive camp sites, and picnicing in open or wooded areas. New features Park and Zoo Pass - Per Passenger include the Playscape with an adventure flair and a professonal Bike Track for the $2.50 serious BMX fans. Dougherty Co. Schools that book an education program in advance: $1.25 per person riding on bus ADDITIONAL SITE/FACILITY AMENITIES Boating Allowed, Bus Parking, Camping - Campers and Tents, Fishing - permit BIRD-WATCHING OPPORTUNITIES: required, Hiking Trails, Meals Available, Pets allowed on leash, Picnic Areas - Bird habitats, Stork migratory route, Covered and Uncovered, Restrooms, Hiking, BMX/Biking Vaulter migratory route DIRECTIONS WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE? Please see our web site. Yes

90 For additional information, please visit www.EEinGEORGIA.org Phinizy Swamp Nature Park

Lock & Dam Road, Augusta, GA 30906

OPERATED BY COUNTY: Richmond Southeastern Natural Sciences Academy PUBLIC CONTACT: OFFERING Caroline Whitcomb - Event Educational Materials/Curriculum, Field Trip/Educational Program, Membership, Coordinator Outdoor Classroom Resource, Outreach Program/Speaker, Professional Development, Public/Family Program, Recreation Opportunities TELEPHONE: (706) 828-2109

AUDIENCES SERVED FAX: (706) 828-2129 Public Schools, Private Schools, Home Schools, Teachers, Non-formal Educators, Families, Scouts/Youth Groups, Special Needs, General Public EMAIL: [email protected] UNIQUE FEATURES The Nature Park is an excellent place for bird and wildlife watching, hiking & WEBSITE: nature photography. It contains natural and constructed wetlands, streams, www.phinizyswamp.org swamps, unique river scars, and an oxbow lake. HOURS OF OPERATION: EDUCATIONAL FOCUS Monday - Friday: Noon - dusk. Open Animals/Wildlife, Biodiversity, Ecology, Endangered Species, all holidays. Habitats/Ecosystems, Nature Awareness, Plants, Pollution, Population, Saturday - Sunday: Dawn to dusk. Sustainability, Trees/Forests, Water AGE/GRADE SERVED: DESCRIPTION Pre-K (4's), Pre-K (5's), K, 1st - Phinizy Swamp Nature Park is an 1,150-acre urban nature preserve located just 12th, College, Adult, Senior minutes from downtown Augusta, Georgia. The Nature Park is being developed as an outdoor nature classroom with trails, outdoor classrooms, bridges, QCC: Yes boardwalks, covered observation decks, visitor center, and a large picnic pavilion. An indoor education and research campus opened in mid 2003. Students and ARRANGEMENTS: other organizations can visit Phinizy Swamp Nature Park during the week by School groups are limited to 90 scheduling one of 21 hands-on, ecology-oriented programs that promote students at a time, but less than 45 increased awareness and appreciation of our natural resources. Tours have been students is considered ideal. designed to coordinate with the current national and local standards of science Booking before September for each education, and are customized to meet the needs of all ages and ability levels. academic year is highly recommended. ADDITIONAL SITE/FACILITY AMENITIES Bus Parking, Hiking Trails, Pets allowed on leash, Covered Picnic Area, PROGRAM/ADMISSION COSTS: Restroom Facilities, Visitor Center Self-guided Tours: Free Guided Tours: Minimum Group rate DIRECTIONS or $4 person Education Programs: $4 per student I-20 to exit 196A, Bobby Jones Expressway. Take Bobby Jones Expressway to Advance arrangements must be Exit 10 (Doug Barnard Parkway/Bush Field Airport). Turn right, toward airport. made Travel just under 1 mile until you see the Wastewater Treatment Plant on your left. Turn left just past the Plant onto Lock & Dam Road. Travel just under ½ mile until you see a small house on the left (you may notice tall silos beyond the BIRD-WATCHING OPPORTUNITIES: house). Just past the house, look for the Phinizy Swamp Nature Park entrance IBA sign on your left. Turn on the paved road. Once you enter the park, gravel (Important Bird Area). Great parking area is on your left. bird habitats, Bird species checklist for site, Birding field trips, Knowledgeable birder on staff Monday-Friday

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE? Some Areas

91 For additional information, please visit www.EEinGEORGIA.org Providence Canyon State Park

Highway 39C, Lumpkin, GA 31815

OPERATED BY COUNTY: Stewart Georgia Department of Natural Resources PUBLIC CONTACT: OFFERING Sherry Stephens - Interpretive Educational Materials/Curriculum, Exhibit/Display, Field Trip/Educational Ranger Program, Outdoor Classroom Resource, Outdoor Recreation, Outreach Program/Speaker, Public/Family Program TELEPHONE: (229) 838-6202

AUDIENCES SERVED FAX: (229) 838-6735 Public Schools, Private Schools, Home Schools, Teachers, Non-formal Educators, Families, Scouts/Youth Groups, Special Needs, General Public EMAIL: [email protected] UNIQUE FEATURES ate.ga.us Guided canyon hikes WEBSITE: EDUCATIONAL FOCUS www.gastateparks.org Agriculture/Farming, Animals/Wildlife, Astronomy, Conservation, Ecology, Geology, Habitats/Ecosystems, Nature Awareness, Outdoor Recreation, Plants, HOURS OF OPERATION: Trees/Forests Office: 8 AM - 5 PM year round Park open: DESCRIPTION 7 AM - 6 PM September 15 - April 14 7 AM - 9 PM April 15 - September 14 Erosion due to poor farming practices in the 1800s has led to canyons 150 feet deep. Educational programs focus on soil erosion, rare plants, Plumleaf Azalea and the Big Leaf Magnolia. AGE/GRADE SERVED: Pre-K (0-1), Pre-K (2's), Pre-K (3's), Pre-K (4's), Pre-K (5's), K, ADDITIONAL SITE/FACILITY AMENITIES 1st - 12th, College, Adult, Senior Bus Parking, Camping - Tents, Camping - Primative (backpacking), Camping - Pioneer (organized groups only), Hiking Trails, Pets allowed on leash, Picnic QCC: Some Areas - Covered and Uncovered, Restrooms, Museum, Gift Shop ARRANGEMENTS: DIRECTIONS Guided hike reservations must be Seven miles West of Lumpkin, GA on Highway 39C made in advance. Make reservations two months prior to visit. Students are encouraged to wear clothes and shoes that they do not mind getting muddy.

PROGRAM/ADMISSION COSTS: Guided Hikes: $2.00/student Teachers, Chaperons and Bus Drivers exempt

BIRD-WATCHING OPPORTUNITIES: Bird habitats, Bird species checklist for site

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE? Some Areas

92 For additional information, please visit www.EEinGEORGIA.org

5665 Reynold's Road, Morrow, GA 30260

OPERATED BY COUNTY: Clayton Clayton County Parks and Recreation PUBLIC CONTACT: OFFERING Stephanie Lucas - Manager Educational Materials/Curriculum, Environmental Service, Exhibit/Display, Field Trip/Educational Program, Membership, Outdoor Classroom Resource, Outdoor TELEPHONE: (770) 603-4188 Recreation, Outreach Program/Speaker, Public/Family Program FAX: (770) 603-4190 AUDIENCES SERVED Public Schools, Private Schools, Home Schools, Teachers, Non-formal EMAIL: Educators, Families, Scouts/Youth Groups, Special Needs, General Public NA

UNIQUE FEATURES WEBSITE: See Description below NA

EDUCATIONAL FOCUS HOURS OF OPERATION: Air, Animals/Wildlife, Astronomy, Biodiversity, Conservation, Ecology, Nature Center: Endangered Species, Gardening/Composting, Geology, Habitats/Ecosystems, Monday - Friday 8:30 AM - 5:30 PM Nature Awareness, Outdoor Recreation, Plants, Recycling/Waste Management, Nature Preserve: Trees/Forests, Water 365 days/year 8:30 AM - dusk

DESCRIPTION AGE/GRADE SERVED: The 140 acre property for the Preserve was donated by Judge William H. Pre-K (0-1), Pre-K (2's), Pre-K Reynolds. "How To" classes are offered pertaining to wildlife, habitat, and hands- (3's), Pre-K (4's), Pre-K (5's), K, on creativity. Trails and ponds are available. Nature programs, learning boxes, 1st - 12th, College, Adult, Senior guided hikes and nature lectures are available to schools. QCC: NA ADDITIONAL SITE/FACILITY AMENITIES ARRANGEMENTS: Call with questions about amenities. Call for more details DIRECTIONS PROGRAM/ADMISSION COSTS: Call for directions. No admission fee Programs range from $5 - $10

BIRD-WATCHING OPPORTUNITIES: Bird habitats

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE? Call for details

93 For additional information, please visit www.EEinGEORGIA.org Spirit Creek Educational Forest

4052 Smokey Road, Hephzibah, GA 30815

OPERATED BY COUNTY: Richmond Georgia Forestry Commission PUBLIC CONTACT: OFFERING Cathy Black - Senior Forester Environmental Service, Field Trip/Educational Program TELEPHONE: (706) 790-2351 AUDIENCES SERVED Public Schools, Private Schools, Home Schools, Teachers, Scouts/Youth Groups FAX: (706) 790-2441

UNIQUE FEATURES EMAIL: Self guided interpretive trail through a tupelo swamp on handicapped accessible [email protected] boardwalk. An arboretum displaying native trees, and ecosystems of Georgia with "talking trees." Nature trails, soil investigation, wetland habitat and quality WEBSITE: studies. www.gfc.state.ga.us

EDUCATIONAL FOCUS HOURS OF OPERATION: Animals/Wildlife, Habitats/Ecosystems, Nature Awareness, Trees/Forests, Monday - Friday: 9 AM - 3:30 PM Sustainability Scheduled School programs: Monday, Wednesday, Friday: 10 DESCRIPTION AM - 1:30 PM Closed on state holidays Spirit Creek Educational Forest is 570 acres of actively managed forestland in the midst of urban development in South Richmond County. Just 30 minutes from downtown Augusta, it will provide students an outdoor experience in which they AGE/GRADE SERVED: can view and learn about different processes, elements, and successional stages K, 1st - 12th, Adult which make up a forest. Students will be guided in their investigation of the environment using grade specific interdisciplinary hands-on activities correlated to QCC: Yes Georgia's Quality Core Curriculum and ITBS. These activities will help students understand their role in nature, their effect on it, and it's effect on our lifestyles. ARRANGEMENTS We accommodate school class sizes ADDITIONAL SITE/FACILITY AMENITIES up to 80 students at any given time. We accommodate adult tour groups Bus Parking, Picnic Area - Uncovered, Restrooms, Walking Trails who just want to visit and see the Forest up to 20 in number. We ask DIRECTIONS that reservations be made at least Located in South Augusta/Richmond County, south of Tobacco Road. From two weeks in advance. Hwy. 25, take Brown Road to McDade Road. Turn left on Smokey Road. The Forest Entrance will be on your right. From Hwy. 56, take Old Waynesboro Road PROGRAM/ADMISSION COSTS: to McDade Road. Follow it to Smokey Road on your right. The Forest entrance Free will be on your right.

BIRD-WATCHING OPPORTUNITIES: Feeders, Bird habitats

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE? Some Areas

94 For additional information, please visit www.EEinGEORGIA.org