Group Programs
We offer programming for groups of all kinds! Our group programming is designed to best suit independent groups interested in a private guided experience or a guest lecture or activity.
On this page, you'll find some of our group programming options. However, we are open to adjusting content and materials to your group's desires. Groups may also choose to book a lecture and a hike consecutively.
Traveling and Guest Lectures
We offer traveling lectures on a variety of topics. We would love to come to your organization and share the knowledge of our staff. Programs usually last for an hour, with a 45 minute lecture and 15 minutes for questions.
Traveling lecture programs have a flat rate of $100 per program (cost may increase depending on distance travelled).
Current Lecture Offerings
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Nature's Mysteries: How Time Changes NatureList Item 1
Have you ever wondered why honey locust trees have such intimidating clusters of immense thorns? Other plant species also exhibit adaptations that appear to be over-engineered in terms of current environmental conditions; yet nature is inherently conservative, with nothing seeming to go to waste. So how do we explain such mysteries?
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Coexisting with Backyard Wildlife
What is that running around my backyard? Why are they here? What steps can I take to minimize stress for the both of us? Learn to ID some common backyard visitors and learn tips and tricks to create harmony for all!
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Common Illinois Animals
Learn all about a variety of different animals that call Illinois home. This is an interactive presentation with pelts, skulls, shells, and more!
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Beneath Our Feet
What is going on deep under the ground? How was Illinois formed, and what forces shaped our landscape? Learn about the geological history of Illinois in this fun presentation.
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Birds of N. Illinois 101
Meet some of our common feathered friends that hang out here in Northern Illinois!
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Fannie Severson: Her History and Legacy
Fannie Severson was an influential woman in the Northern IL community. In this presentation, learn about her history, her accomplishments, and the legacy she left behind.
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Landscapes of Winnebago County
There is much more to Winnebago County than farmland and cities. Learn about the natural wonders this county boasts and the unique flora and fauna associated with them.
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Climate Change in Northern Illinois
As the years go by, we are faced with more and more extreme weather events, and a warming climate. What does that mean for the animals and plants that call Illinos home?
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Believe it or Not: Nature Myths and Facts
From things you were taught in school that aren't quite right, to facts so unbelieveable they can't possibly be true...we will put our knowledge to the test in this fun slideshow. Be prepared to be wowed, and have some great facts to share at your next get together!
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Winter Adaptations of Animals
When the nights turn long and the days turn cold, what do animals in Illinois do to survive? Some might migrate, some hibernate, and some just stick it out--but how?
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Winter Birds
As snow covers the ground, what feathered friends might we find coming to our feeders?
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Wildflowers of Northern Illinois
Join us for a journey through the seasons as we learn about what wildflowers grace our landscapes from March-September!
Please note: This program can include hands on samples of flowers that are in season.
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Pollinators
Pollinators are important in our everyday lives but are often overlooked. Join us as we talk about bees, birds, bats, and more and their importance in our lives and our ecosystems.
Contact Us to Book a Lecture
Private Guided Hikes & Walks
Private guided hikes and walks are a perfect opportunity to get an exclusive look at either Severson Dells' forest, prairie, or dells, or at the restoration progress at Prairie's Edge. We can arrange a private experience for you and your group based on your interest and mobility level.
We also offer guided tours via golf cart for those with accessibility concerns. These tours are limited to 3 guests due to space on the golf cart. If you're interested in scheduling a golf cart tour, this must be booked in advance. Please call 815-335-2915 for assistance.
Pricing:
Non-profit groups - $5/person for up to 2 hours, $2/person for each additional hour. Minimum $50/group.
For-profit groups - $8/person for up to 2 hours, $4/person for each additional hour. Minimum $60/group.
Golf Cart Tours - $20 for a half hour tour. Limited to 1-3 people per tour. Cost is based on number of tours, not number of guests.
Private Hike or Walk Locations
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Severson Dells: Prairie & GrasslandList Item 1
From Wet Prairies to Hilltop Prairies, Severson has a variety of grassland habitats. Explore the rolling prairie filled with native plants, wildflowers, butterflies, and more.
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Severson Dells: Forest & Savanna
Severson Dells is home to a reich Oak-Hickory forest, as well as a restored savanna dotted with majestic oaks and wildflowers.
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Severson Dells: The Dells & Hall Creek
Our dolomitic bedrock was formed around 450 million years ago in the Ordovician period, when Illinois was a warm, shallow ocean. The Dells borders Hall Creek, an idyllic stream that runs throughout the immediate region. Due to trail restrictions, golf cart tours to The Dells are not available.
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Severson Dells: The Paved Loop
Severson Dells has a 2/3 mile paved loop trail that visits the forest, oak savanna, and a pond frequented by turtles and frogs.
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Prairie's Edge
Currently being rewilded with native plants, Prairie's Edge represents an execellent opportunity to see the restoration process and benefits. Because this property does not yet have defined trails, golf cart tours are not available.
