Teachers and students! Are you looking for hands-on educational activities that mesh with National Curriculum Standards for Science, promote discovery, are down right fun and yet are free. Then mark your calendars for October 7th and plan on joining park rangers at Cumberland Gap National Historical Park for “Wild Mountain Mania” Nature Festival.
Students will be mesmerized as geologists use paint ball demonstrations to show how a meteor created the landscape on which Middlesboro, Kentucky is built. Questions will flow from young, inquisitive minds as authorities on black bear, elk, mountain lions and other animals share their knowledge of these animals’ habits. A “Discovery Trail” through the hardwood forest will promote observation skills and the use of tree identification guides. “Silly Safari” presentations will allow for safe interactions between the curious and non-poisonous reptiles, mammals, and insects. Programs offered by staff from the Kentucky Reptile Zoo will showcase the importance of snakes and other reptiles in the ecosystem and help to dispel many myths. Birds of prey once injured, but now rehabilitated, will take to the sky as these winged wonders are released into the wild by staff from the Raptor Rehabilitation of Kentucky. School children will learn how today’s technology is being used to better protect our resources. Interest will be piqued as students are encouraged to form their own animal tracks using molds. A “Kid’s Corner” will spawn creativity. Noted naturalist John Muir of long ago will roam the grounds and proclaim “Nature’s peace will flow into you as sunshine flows into trees. The winds will blow their own freshness into you…while cares will drop off like autumn leaves.” Leading exports and authors on the wildflowers of the area will be on hand and available to autograph books. Spelunkers will introduce students to the underground world. Tips on backpacking and camping will be offered. And music will flow throughout the mountains.
Event choreographer Park Ranger Scott Teodorski extends an invitation to teachers and students from every grade level to attend. “There will be something for everyone. And the setting for the nature fest is perfect. In October, the mountainsides are painted in a kaleidoscope of colors with the mustard yellow of the hickory, the orange of the maple and the maroon of the sourwood.” Ranger Teodorski further explains that the event will actually be a three day event, kicking off on October 7th with the students’ arrival and extending through 5 p.m. on October 9th. “Visitors are certainly invited to attend on the 7th and we’re encouraging students to return with their parents and families throughout the weekend.” The event will go rain or shine as exhibits will be displayed under a large tent.” Teachers are encouraged to make reservations by calling park staff at 606-248-2817, extension 1075; advance educational materials are also available for teachers.
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