WINONA LAKE — Despite Kosciusko County being home to over 100 lakes, some residents have never had the chance to try fishing or interact with a native critter.
The Lilly Center is changing this by offering free events that help county residents engage with their lake in a new way.
Connecting with your lake is the first step toward caring for it, according to a news release from The Lilly Center. Whether you are visiting a public access point, boating, walking on the beach or attending a Lilly Center event, it is an opportunity to appreciate all that our lakes have to offer.
Events are available for students of all ages and adults that incorporate science and hands-on activities:
• Stories & STEM: June 5, 12 at Warsaw Community Public Library. Bring your elementary-age children and learn about the many aspects of lake ecosystems through stories and hands-on projects.
• Critter Encounter: Fish: June 14, 9:30 a.m. at the Lilly Center. Learn about native fish through games, story time, crafts and hands-on interactions. RSVP required.
• Learning on the Water: Birding Basics: June 15, 9-11:30 a.m. at Tippecanoe River Adventures. Explore our waterways while getting the opportunity to learn about and see native bird species. RSVP required.
• Lake Fun with Lilly Day: June 19, 10 a.m. at Winona Lake Limitless Park. Attendees will learn play water games and learn how to fish with provided poles and bait.
• Swamp Stomp: June 26, 10:30 a.m. at the Lilly Center. Fifth- to eighth-graders will take an exploratory hike around a wetland and enjoy fun hands-on activities in partnership with WCPL.
• Critter Encounter: Mudpuppy: June 28, 9:30 a.m. at the Lilly Center. Learn about the common mudpuppy through games, story time, crafts and hands-on interactions. RSVP is required.
• Critter Encounter: Turtle: July 19, 9:30 a.m. at the Lilly Center. Learn about the wonderful world of turtles through games, story time, crafts, and hands-on interactions. RSVP is required.