Special Programs for Educators at the Macon County Conservation District
During COVID-19, we are happy to work with you to provide virtual education for your group. We are offering Virtual Field Trips, consisting of a 30-45 minute presentation, followed by time for questions and answers, for a flat fee of $20. To schedule a Virtual Field Trip or make other arrangements, call Nature Center Manager, Alysia Callison, at 217-423-7708 (Monday-Friday, 8am-5pm). We are not currently lending out the Museum in a Box teaching kits, nor the IDNR Lending Trunks.
The Macon County Conservation District is committed to providing enriching educational opportunities for students and educators of all kinds: classroom teachers, homeschoolers, and youth group leaders. The District offers materials for classrooms, field trip destinations, Mobile Nature Center presentations, and assistance with scout badge workshops and requirements.
We’re an extension of your classroom. Our nature programs for all grade levels complement your science curriculum with hands on learning. Our living history programs teach children from pre-kindergarten through college about pioneer life on the Illinois prairie.
All tours, presentations, and programs are adapted according to the age and needs of your group and align with Common Core and Next Generation Science Standards. The exact standards enhanced by the experience will vary depending on the content of the program, your students, and how you use the experience.
These learning opportunities are perfect for: schools, home-school groups, after school programs, organized groups, scouts, retirement communities, libraries, day care centers, and camps.
All programs can be held at Rock Springs Conservation Area. Many can also be held at Griswold, Sand Creek, Friends Creek, and Fort Daniel Conservation Areas, or at your location.
Rock Springs Conservation Area and Nature Center is located on the southwestern edge of Decatur at 3939 Nearing Lane. To get to Rock Springs Center from Decatur go south on Route 48 and turn right onto Rock Springs Road. Watch for signs. Plenty of parking is available. Rock Springs GPS Coordinates are 39.817713 N, 89.00932 W [get directions]