EARTH DAY 2026
Saturday, May 2, 2026
11 AM - 3 PM
Join us at Nell's Woodland for an all day Earth Day celebration! We are collaborating with our partners this Earth Day for a number of exciting events that coincide with our 3 spheres of stewardship; Ecology, Wellness, and The Arts.
ACTIVITIES
Forest Bathing Spring Planting Tips
Make/Take Crafts Nature Journaling
Nature Photo Scavanger Hunt IDNR Wildlife Trailer
Native Plants and Pollinators 4H Activities
Beekeeping Demonstrations Face Painting
R E G I S T R A T I O N I S N OT R E Q U I R E D !
C o m p l i m e n t a r y ( a s l o n g a s s u p p l i e s l a s t )
E v e n t s a n d A c t i v i t i e s
N e l l ’ s W o o d l a n d B a g s
J o u r n a l s
S t a r t e r N a t i v e P l a n t s
EXHIBITORS
City of Ottawa Visitors Center
City of Ottawa Childrens Museum
Ottawa Chamber of Commerce
The University of Illinois Extension 4H
Lasalle County Health Department
Lasalle County Soil and Water Conservation
Earth Day Partners
Experience Nell's Woodland Spheres of Influence through a number of unique courses offered by IVCC Continuing Education.
Next Hike: Saturday, April 11, and April 25, 2026
10AM - 11AM
The tour includes a 1-mile leisurely walk, narrated by Joe Jakupcak. Joe's passion for geology, native wildlife, and local history is showcased during the Nell's Woodland guided walk. Guided tours are given bi-weekly.
Next Story Time: Monday, May 4, 2026
10:30 AM
Join Reddick Library at Nell's Woodland on the first Monday of the month from 10:30 AM to 11:30 AM for a nature themed story time. Enjoy stories, music, and a craft followed by a short hike through the park. This event is for children of all ages. Registration is required. Please register in person at the library or call (815)434--0509.
Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026
10 AM - 12 PM
Explore the beauty of spring wildflowers on a series of guided hikes at natural areas around LaSalle County. Spring ephemeral wildflowers can only be viewed for a brief period of time, between the ground thawing and the forest canopy leafing out. Our Master Naturalist volunteers will guide you through each natural area to search for these rare springtime blooms. Participants of all ages are welcome!
Date: Saturday, April 25, 2026
10 AM - 12 PM
This hands‑on workshop is designed to help you take clearer, more compelling outdoor photos. We’ll explore essential skills such as working with natural light, framing and composition, and understanding your camera’s capabilities. Participants are welcome to bring any type of camera they prefer—from point‑and‑shoot to DSLR or mirrorless. While we’ll briefly discuss smartphone photography, it won’t be the primary focus of the session. Enjoy a guided learning experience in the beautiful setting of Nell’s Woodland as you build confidence and creativity behind the camera!
10 AM - 12 PM
Join us for a fascinating exploration of Illinois' prehistoric past. This hands-on program is designed for fossil enthusiasts of all ages and will provide participants with the knowledge and skills to identify fossils found in the state.
Date: Saturday, March 7, 2026
1 PM - 3 PM
Kids can get creative and learn about nature in this hands-on workshop! Participants will build a bluebird nest box with guidance from a Master Naturalist volunteer and discover fun facts about birds and the importance of bird conservation. This program is designed for children and offers a great way to connect with wildlife while learning new skills.
