Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust facts for kids

Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust is a special place in Woodbury, Connecticut. It is a non-profit group that works to protect natural areas and teach people about the environment. Since 1963, Flanders has helped save over 2,100 acres of open land. This land is spread across seven different nature preserves. These preserves are located in towns like Woodbury, Bethlehem, Southbury, and Middlebury.

What is Flanders Nature Center?

Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust is like a big outdoor classroom. It helps people of all ages learn about nature, art, and farming. A nature center is a place where you can explore the outdoors and learn about plants and animals. A land trust is a group that protects land from being built on. They make sure these natural spaces stay wild for everyone to enjoy.

Learning and Fun Programs

Flanders offers many exciting programs for kids and adults. You can join classes to learn about local wildlife or try your hand at art inspired by nature. They have fun summer camps where you can spend your days exploring. There are also after-school activities and special programs for school groups. These programs help people connect with nature and understand why it's important to protect our planet.

Explore the Preserves

Flanders Nature Center & Land Trust manages several beautiful nature preserves. These are protected areas where nature can thrive. They offer places for hiking, wildlife watching, and learning.

• Van Vleck Farm and Nature Sanctuary, Woodbury: This is the main teaching campus. It has a historic farmhouse, art studio, and barns. It's a great spot to learn about farming and nature.
• Whittemore Sanctuary, Woodbury: This large preserve covers 686 acres. It offers plenty of space for hiking and enjoying quiet nature.
• Manville Kettle, Woodbury: A smaller, unique area covering 6.5 acres.
• Hetzel Refuge, Middlebury: This refuge spans 54 acres, providing a peaceful natural escape.
• Fredrick W. Marzahl Memorial Refuge: Another important protected area for local wildlife.
• Leavenworth Preserve, Woodbury: This preserve covers 126 acres. It's a wonderful place to explore different habitats.
• Fleming Preserve, Woodbury: A 28.5-acre preserve that adds to the network of protected lands.

These preserves help protect important habitats for animals and plants. They also give people places to enjoy the outdoors.