Cub Scout programs
Natural science programs or badge activities led by LVNC staff are available for a nominal fee. A 1 1/2 hour program will satisfy most, or all, of the requirements for a given badge or achievement.For other program options, contact the Nature Center staff.
Tiger
Let's Go Outdoors
Make leaf and bark rubbings. Take a hike around the lake.
Conservation Treasure Hunt
Learn about conservation of our natural resources and recycling. Meet one of Nature's recyclers - the earthworm. Make paper and go on a litter hunt. (Electives 31, 33, 34, 47)
Wolf
Start a Collection
Learn to identify nine different polished gemstones. Make
a collection to take home.
Birds
Practice binocular skills. Study bird identification and
behavior. Make a bird treat or nesting material source (depending on season) for the birds in your
backyard .
Fishing
April through October
Learn to bait a hook, cast, and fish safely in our stocked lake. Identify some
common fish species and learn about Illinois fishing laws.
Bear
Sharing Your World with Wildlife
Learn about reptiles and how they live. Discuss wildlife
conservation and extinction.
Weather
Learn how weather forecasts are made. Make a rain gauge and weather vane to use at home to record the weather. Learn about thermometers, barometers, and clouds.
Water and Soil Conservation
Investigate soil layers and conduct experiments
to learn about different kinds of soil. Learn about erosion and the dangers
and benefits of fire.
Webelos
Forester
Learn about forests and trees, and some things we use wood
for. Identify common local trees and plants, and investigate tree rings. Discuss
the benefits and harm caused by wildfires.
Naturalist
Learn to identify some common poisonous plants and venomous
animals.
Geologist
Learn how rocks are formed, study rocks and their uses, and conduct simple tests geologists use to study them. Take home a rock collection.
Belt Loops & Pins
Fishing
April through October
Learn to bait a hook, cast, and fish safely in our stocked lake. Learn about Illinois fishing laws, the parts of a fish, and fishing reels.
Map & Compass
Learn about maps and compasses and how to use them to find
your way.
Wildlife Conservation
Learn about natural resources, food chains, and endangered species. May also cover
camouflage, animal classification, or animal tracks.
Geology
Be a junior geologist, explore our rock collection and conduct a few tests scientists use to identify rocks. Make a pet rock.
Additional Programs
Camping Fun
Put up a tent and learn about camping equipment and fire safety. Enjoy a campfire in our campfire circle.
Reptilemania
Meet LVNC's resident turtles and snakes as you learn about reptiles.
Animal Tracks & Signs
Learn to identify different animal footprints, recognize other animal signs, and create a plaster cast of an animal track.
Leave No Trace
Learn the importance of the "Leave No Trace" principles. Participate in a litter cleanup of the park, lake, shoreline, and/or stream.